2009 Ford Explorer vs. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (292 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 819 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Explorer (427 Nm) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (230 Nm). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2000 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4606 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2270 mm |
