2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2011 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 10 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Impala (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 58 kg more than 2011 Chevrolet Impala.
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, 2011 Chevrolet Impala, 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, 2011 Chevrolet Impala (293 Nm) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 2011 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2011 Chevrolet Impala 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. 2011 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2011 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Impala |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 293 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 | 1671 kg | 1613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2807 mm |
