2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 5,326 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix (303 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster 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, 2006 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, 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix (438 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 271 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 | 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 5326 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 438 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 64 L |
