2003 Chevrolet SSR vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet SSR 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 5,316 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (155 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet SSR weights approximately 483 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 SSR (449 Nm) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 2003 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2003 Chevrolet SSR 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 SSR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet SSR | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | SSR | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5316 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 449 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2154 kg | 1671 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2270 mm |
