2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1999 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Saab 05-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Saab 05-Sep would be higher. At 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Saab 05-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1999 Saab 05-Sep. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1999 Saab 05-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Saab 05-Sep weights approximately 407 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Saab 05-Sep (280 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (225 Nm). This means 1999 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1999 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1554 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 75 L |
