2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1991 Saab 9000
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Saab 9000 (200 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (170 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Saab 9000 weights approximately 54 kg more than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Saab 9000, 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, 1991 Saab 9000 (323 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1991 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1991 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 323 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 66 L |
