2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo would be higher. At 3,354 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (180 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (170 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo weights approximately 100 kg more than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 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, 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (277 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Monte Carlo | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3354 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 48 L |
