2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 3,130 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix. (174 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 388 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, 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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 Pontiac Grand Prix (264 Nm) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (225 Nm). This means 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 | 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 3130 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 3160 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 66 L |
