2009 Ford Escape vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Ford Escape is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Escape (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 53 kg more than 2009 Ford Escape.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Escape, 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, 2009 Ford Escape (232 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Escape | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escape | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 972 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 50 L |
