1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 2003 TVR Chimaera is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 4,546 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 TVR Chimaera (282 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (137 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 TVR Chimaera weights approximately 30 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 TVR Chimaera (306 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (163 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 2003 TVR Chimaera has manual transmission. 2003 TVR Chimaera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2003 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Mazda | TVR |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 4546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 57 L |
