2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2001 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Saab 05-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Saab 05-Sep would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Saab 05-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Saab 05-Sep (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Saab 05-Sep should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Saab 05-Sep weights approximately 445 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Saab 05-Sep, 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 Saab 05-Sep (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (169 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2001 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2001 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 75 L |
