1998 Buick Signia vs. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Buick Signia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Buick Signia would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Buick Signia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Buick Signia (238 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (110 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Buick Signia should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Buick Signia weights approximately 660 kg more than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Buick Signia, 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, 1998 Buick Signia (387 Nm) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (161 Nm). This means 1998 Buick Signia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1998 Buick Signia has automatic transmission and 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Buick Signia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Buick Signia | 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Buick | Mazda |
| Model | Signia | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3800 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 387 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2270 mm |
