2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2001 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Vibe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Vibe would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2001 Pontiac Vibe. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2001 Pontiac Vibe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Vibe weights approximately 104 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 2001 Pontiac Vibe, 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 (188 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Pontiac Vibe. (177 Nm). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Pontiac Vibe.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2001 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Vibe |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1098 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2610 mm |
