2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Saturn L
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 Saturn L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Saturn L would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2003 Saturn L. (135 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saturn L weights approximately 173 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 Saturn L, 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, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (225 Nm) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Saturn L. (199 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Saturn L.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2003 Saturn L | |
Make | Mazda | Saturn |
Model | MX-5 Miata | L |
Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 178 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 225 Nm | 199 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1320 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 59 L |