1972 Chevrolet Chevelle vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle would be higher. At 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (108 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle weights approximately 445 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle (312 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (135 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Chevelle | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5012 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.3 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.6 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 50 L |
