1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 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 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 483 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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, 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) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Cavalier | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1671 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2270 mm |
