2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2009 Pontiac G5
To start off, 2009 Pontiac G5 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac G5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2009 Pontiac G5. (153 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2009 Pontiac G5.
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, 2009 Pontiac G5, 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 (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Pontiac G5. (150 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Pontiac G5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2009 Pontiac G5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | G5 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.4 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
