1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1987 Saab 90
To start off, 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Saab 90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Saab 90 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Saab 90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1987 Saab 90. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1987 Saab 90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Saab 90 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1994 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 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Saab 90, 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, 1987 Saab 90 (161 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (130 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1987 Saab 90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1987 Saab 90 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 90 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2470 mm |
