1996 Chevrolet APV vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet APV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet APV would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet APV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet APV. (118 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet APV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet APV weights approximately 490 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, 1996 Chevrolet APV, 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, 1996 Chevrolet APV (238 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet APV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1996 Chevrolet APV 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. 1996 Chevrolet APV will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet APV | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | APV | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2340 mm |
