1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 5,326 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix (290 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (110 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 565 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix (441 Nm) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (241 Nm). This means 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix has automatic transmission and 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 5326 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 441 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2760 mm |
