2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1954 Saab 94
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 55 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Saab 94. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Saab 94 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1954 Saab 94. (57 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1954 Saab 94. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 666 kg more than 1954 Saab 94. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1954 Saab 94, 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Saab 94. (85 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Saab 94.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1954 Saab 94 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 94 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 747 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 504 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1040 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2210 mm |
