1999 Buick Cielo vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata

To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Buick Cielo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Buick Cielo would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Buick Cielo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Buick Cielo (238 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Buick Cielo should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.

Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Buick Cielo, 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, 1999 Buick Cielo (373 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1999 Buick Cielo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1999 Buick Cielo has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Buick Cielo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1999 Buick Cielo 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Make Buick Mazda
Model Cielo MX-5 Miata
Year Released 1999 2008
Body Type Convertible Convertible
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 124 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 373 Nm 167 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 4500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 2 seats
Vehicle Length 4910 mm 4000 mm
Vehicle Width 1910 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1250 mm