2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Saturn ION. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Saturn ION would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (159 HP) has 19 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (140 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn ION weights approximately 89 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, 2005 Saturn ION, 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, 2005 Saturn ION (197 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm). This means 2005 Saturn ION 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 | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | ION |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 49 L |
