2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Oldsmobile SS
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Oldsmobile SS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Oldsmobile SS would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Oldsmobile SS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Oldsmobile SS (238 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Oldsmobile SS should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Oldsmobile SS, 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, 1996 Oldsmobile SS (380 Nm) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm). This means 1996 Oldsmobile SS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1996 Oldsmobile SS has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Oldsmobile SS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Oldsmobile SS | |
| Make | Mazda | Oldsmobile |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | SS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 68 L |
