Contents
2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs Ford Mustang: What To Choose?
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a compact sports car with a lively personality. Offering a thrilling driving experience on twisty roads or tracks. Powered by an 181-hp 2.0L four-cylinder engine, it pairs well with the standard six-speed manual transmission. Despite its limited practicality for daily use due to its snug cabin and small trunk. The Miata remains a joy to drive. On the other hand, Ford’s latest Mustang. The seventh iteration of the iconic muscle car, features reworked styling, revised chassis, and an all-new interior. The 5.0L V8 engine produces 480 hp, and a 315-hp turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost is also available. With both a 10-speed automatic and an optional six-speed manual transmission for the V8. The Mustang maintains its legacy with upgraded features and powerful engine choices.
| Mazda MX-5 Miata | Ford Mustang | |
| Dimensions | 154.1 in x 68.3 in x 48.6 in | 189.7 in x 75.5 in x 55.2 in |
| Engine | 2.0L DOHC inline-4 | 5.0L DOHC V8 |
| Horsepower | 181 hp | 500 hp |
| Torque | 151 lb-ft | 418 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | 5.7 sec | 4.1 sec |
| 0-100 MPH | 16.1 sec | 9.7 sec |
| Top-Speed | 140 mph | 166 mph |
Mazda MX-5 Miata
Engine & Performance
The Miata’s engine eagerly revs, delivering abundant power for an exhilarating acceleration experience. Its straightforward manual transmission not only simplifies shifting but also encourages drivers to explore its performance limits. Even the automatic option stands out with swift shifts and a sporty feel. While Miatas typically provide a firm ride, especially the Club variant with its stiffer shocks and springs. None of them exhibits poor handling. However, on uneven or bumpy roads, Miatas may feel a bit jittery. These distinctive characteristics collectively make the Miata lineup a delightful choice for drivers in search of an energetic and engaging ride.
Price & Mileage
Expected updates to the Miata hint at Mazda retaining its existing trim levels, but there’s a chance of a price increase. Potentially surpassing the $30,000 mark for the first time. Despite its compact size, the 2.0L engine demonstrates commendable EPA fuel efficiency. Reaching up to 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The possible uptick in cost is noteworthy, particularly given the modest dimensions of the car.
Acceleration & Features
Zooming from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds in tests. The soft-top model outpaces its slightly heavier hardtop RF counterpart, which clocked in at 5.8 seconds. The Miata features an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with user-friendly controls like a convenient knob and hard buttons on the centre console. Every Miata comes standard with Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, ensuring seamless connectivity. For those seeking an audio upgrade, there’s the option of a Bose stereo with speakers cleverly embedded in the Miata’s headrests.
Ford Mustang
Engine & Performance
The Mustang, an enduring symbol of the horse-car era, continues to captivate enthusiasts worldwide. Showcasing a finely tuned, naturally aspirated 32-valve 5.0L engine, meticulously crafted to enhance both efficiency and power while minimizing friction, it sets itself apart by incorporating two throttle bodies, a key factor in its impressive performance. With a remarkable 480 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, it surpasses its predecessor, which boasted 450 hp at 7000 rpm and 410 lb-ft at 4600. Upon ignition, the engine emits a spirited bark-burble, signalling the commencement of an exhilarating journey. Opting for the active-valve exhaust elevates the output to 486 hp and 418 lb-ft, promising an even more thrilling driving experience.
Price & Mileage
With a premium exceeding $10,000 over the base four-cylinder option, the GT coupe presents an enticing proposition. For an additional cost of approximately $5000, you can enhance your driving experience by opting for the GT Performance package. This upgrade includes 19-inch wheels, substantial Brembo callipers, a 3.73-geared Torsen differential, and visually striking enhancements. Priced from $43,090, the GT houses a potent V8 engine, renowned for its impressive performance. Remarkably, its fuel efficiency remains commendable, boasting 15 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. This noteworthy fuel economy persists in the current model.
Acceleration & Features
Embracing a subtle yet captivating upgrade, the electronically assisted power-steering ratio has narrowed to 15.5:1, a nuanced shift from its former 16.0:1. This adjustment establishes a heightened connection, thanks to meticulously refined control software. Strategic reinforcements are implemented in key body areas, and the brakes now benefit from electronic enhancement, replacing the previous vacuum system. Acceleration to sixty mph is swift in the second gear, while the third gear delivers pure delight on winding backroads, occasionally flirting with the thrill of speed. At the vehicle’s core, the iconic dual-brow dash undergoes an impressive transformation. Evolving from a lengthy rectangular display, it seamlessly integrates a 12.4-inch instrument cluster screen and a 13.2-inch touchscreen, elegantly overseeing various cockpit functions, from climate adjustments to stereo settings, and even the exhilarating launch control.