1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Astra (139 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Astra weights approximately 302 kg more than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 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 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra, 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, 2008 Saturn Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (155 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Astra |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 983 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 46 L |
