1999 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (108 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 78 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Cavalier | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 50 L |
