2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1994 Saab 900
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Saab 900 (182 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Saab 900 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 1994 Saab 900, 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, 1994 Saab 900 (263 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1994 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1994 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 900 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 263 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 68 L |
