1995 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier. (121 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 145 kg more than 1995 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, 1995 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 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Cavalier | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 121 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 48 L |
