1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Pontiac G5
To start off, 2008 Pontiac G5 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,401 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac G5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac G5 (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac G5 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac G5, 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 Pontiac G5 (226 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac G5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2008 Pontiac G5 | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | MX-5 Miata | G5 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2401 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 171 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 129 Nm | 226 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4570 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2640 mm |