2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2002 Oldsmobile Alero
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Oldsmobile Alero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Oldsmobile Alero would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Oldsmobile Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2002 Oldsmobile Alero. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2002 Oldsmobile Alero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Oldsmobile Alero weights approximately 179 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, 2002 Oldsmobile Alero, 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, 2002 Oldsmobile Alero (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Oldsmobile Alero 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 | 2002 Oldsmobile Alero | |
| Make | Mazda | Oldsmobile |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Alero |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| 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 | 1191 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2720 mm |
