2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2011 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2011 Saab 05-Sep is newer by 3 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Saab 05-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Saab 05-Sep (220 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Saab 05-Sep 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, 2011 Saab 05-Sep, 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, 2011 Saab 05-Sep (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2011 Saab 05-Sep has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Saab 05-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2011 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5009 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1250 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2837 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
