2009 Ford Focus vs. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 452 kg more than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus, 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 Focus (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Ford Focus | 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Focus | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 116 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 137 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83.6 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 970 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2270 mm |