1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1986 Saab 9000
To start off, 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Saab 9000 (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Saab 9000 weights approximately 318 kg more than 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 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 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Saab 9000, 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, 1986 Saab 9000 (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1986 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2670 mm |
