2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 275 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, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am, 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, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am (278 Nm) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm). This means 2001 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2001 Pontiac Grand Am | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Grand Am |
Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 124 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 278 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1430 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2720 mm |