2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1992 Ford Tempo
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1992 Ford Tempo. (97 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1992 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Ford Tempo weights approximately 40 kg more than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Ford Tempo, 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Ford Tempo. (171 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1992 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Tempo |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3995 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1245 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2329 mm | 2540 mm |
