1996 Chevrolet Lumina vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Lumina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Lumina would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Lumina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Lumina. (155 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Lumina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Lumina weights approximately 363 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina, 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 Lumina (251 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (220 Nm). This means 1996 Chevrolet Lumina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Lumina | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Lumina | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 48 L |
