2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Chevrolet Prizm
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Prizm is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Prizm is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Prizm (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Prizm should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Prizm weights approximately 10 kg more than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Prizm, 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (244 Nm) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm. (169 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm. 2003 Chevrolet Prizm has automatic transmission and 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet Prizm will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2003 Chevrolet Prizm | |
Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Prizm |
Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1794 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 112 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 244 Nm | 169 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1090 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2470 mm |