1992 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,187 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier. (110 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 12 kg more than 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Cavalier | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2187 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1179 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2340 mm |
