2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2004 Saturn L
To start off, 2004 Saturn L is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2004 Saturn L. (135 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2004 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 351 kg more than 2004 Saturn L. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Saturn L, 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 Saturn L (199 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 2004 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2004 Saturn L | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | L |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.1 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2630 mm |
