2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2009 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2009 Saturn Astra. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2009 Saturn Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Astra weights approximately 637 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, 2009 Saturn Astra, 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 (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Saturn Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2009 Saturn Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Saturn |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Astra |
Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 188 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1098 kg | 1735 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4340 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 45 L |