2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2011 Ford Flex
To start off, 2011 Ford Flex is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Flex is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Flex (262 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Flex should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Flex weights approximately 834 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Ford Flex, 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, 2011 Ford Flex (336 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Flex will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2011 Ford Flex has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Ford Flex will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2011 Ford Flex | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Flex |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 262 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 2028 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5126 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1928 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1727 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2995 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
