2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2006 Saab 9-7X
To start off, 2006 Saab 9-7X is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 4,195 cc, 2006 Saab 9-7X is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saab 9-7X (291 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (104 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saab 9-7X should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saab 9-7X weights approximately 409 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Saab 9-7X, 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, 2006 Saab 9-7X (376 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Saab 9-7X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2006 Saab 9-7X 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. 2006 Saab 9-7X will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2006 Saab 9-7X | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 9-7X |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 4195 cc |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 291 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 376 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 101.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 83 L |
