2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2009 Pontiac G8
To start off, 2009 Pontiac G8 is newer by 4 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 6,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac G8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac G8 (361 HP) has 237 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac G8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Pontiac G8 weights approximately 274 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 2009 Pontiac G8 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. 2009 Pontiac G8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2009 Pontiac G8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | G8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 361 HP |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 72 L |
