2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1990 Saab 9000
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Saab 9000 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 (158 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1990 Saab 9000. (135 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1990 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Saab 9000 weights approximately 130 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 1990 Saab 9000, 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 (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Saab 9000. (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Saab 9000. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1990 Saab 9000 has manual transmission. 1990 Saab 9000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1990 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 194 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 54 L |
