2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1959 Saab 95
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Saab 95. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Saab 95 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (140 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1959 Saab 95. (38 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1959 Saab 95. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 252 kg more than 1959 Saab 95. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Saab 95, 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Saab 95. (84 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Saab 95.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1959 Saab 95 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 95 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 841 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 888 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
