2002 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 103 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 2002 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, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (170 Nm). This means 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Cavalier | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 48 L |
