2006 Saturn Relay vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Saturn Relay. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Saturn Relay would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Saturn Relay is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn Relay (201 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn Relay should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Saturn Relay, 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, 2006 Saturn Relay (293 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn Relay will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2006 Saturn Relay has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Saturn Relay will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Saturn Relay | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Saturn | Mazda |
| Model | Relay | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 293 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 48 L |
