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 (153 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. (121 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 160 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, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier.
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 | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 121 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
