1991 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA
To start off, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (165 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA should accelerate faster than 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA weights approximately 77 kg more than 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier. (163 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Cavalier | MX-5 MIATA |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4032 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2330 mm |
