1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 190 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Cavalier | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 50 L |
