2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (104 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 71 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 1187 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 57 L |
