1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 7 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 2,391 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (139 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 598 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier.
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, 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 (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2004 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 | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
Model | Cavalier | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2391 cc | 1837 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 139 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1785 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3980 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 50 L |