2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Pontiac G5
To start off, 2008 Pontiac G5 is newer by 7 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 2,401 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac G5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac G5 (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac G5 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (244 Nm) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Pontiac G5. (226 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Pontiac G5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2008 Pontiac G5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | G5 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 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 | 112 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2640 mm |
