2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 395 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Grand Prix |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 3785 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 124 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 66 L |