2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Saturn Aura
To start off, 2008 Saturn Aura is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,401 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Saturn Aura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Aura (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (153 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Aura should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Aura weights approximately 230 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Saturn Aura, 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, 2008 Saturn Aura (216 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Aura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2008 Saturn Aura has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Saturn Aura will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2008 Saturn Aura | |
Make | Mazda | Saturn |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Aura |
Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2401 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 153 HP | 164 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 189 Nm | 216 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1285 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4860 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |