1998 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 48 kg more than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
Model | Cavalier | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2190 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 176 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1139 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3995 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1245 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2329 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 48 L |