2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1995 Saturn SL
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Saturn SL would be higher. At 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Saturn SL (125 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Saturn SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 107 kg more than 1995 Saturn SL.
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, 1995 Saturn SL, 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, 1995 Saturn SL (168 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1995 Saturn SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1995 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1400 mm |
