2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Saab 05-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Saab 05-Sep would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saab 05-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saab 05-Sep (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saab 05-Sep should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 300 kg more than 2003 Saab 05-Sep.
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, 2003 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, 2003 Saab 05-Sep (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 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 | 2003 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1837 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 75 L |
