1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 430 kg more than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 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 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu, 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 Malibu (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (130 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
Model | Malibu | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1996 | 1994 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 116 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 130 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 955 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2270 mm |