2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2005 Saturn LW
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Saturn LW. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Saturn LW would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn LW is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2005 Saturn LW. (135 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn LW. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn LW weights approximately 438 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, 2005 Saturn LW, 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, 2005 Saturn LW (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Saturn LW will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2005 Saturn LW 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. 2005 Saturn LW will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2005 Saturn LW | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | LW |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 59 L |
