2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2005 Saturn L
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 L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Saturn L would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn L (182 HP) has 16 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (166 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn L weights approximately 139 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, 2005 Saturn L, 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 L (258 Nm) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm). This means 2005 Saturn L 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 L | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | L |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 182 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1468 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.9 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.8 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 59 L |
