2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2000 Saturn L
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Saturn L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Saturn L would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2000 Saturn L. (135 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2000 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Saturn L weights approximately 183 kg more than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 2000 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, 2000 Saturn L (193 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2000 Saturn L 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 | 2000 Saturn L | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | L |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
