2001 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 65 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Cavalier | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 50 L |
