1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo would be higher. At 3,350 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (215 HP) has 81 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo weights approximately 500 kg more than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 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 Monte Carlo (298 Nm) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (163 Nm). This means 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Monte Carlo | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3350 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 50 L |
