2008 Ford S-Max vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 658 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Ford S-Max (320 Nm) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (170 Nm). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | S-Max | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.4 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 48 L |
