2004 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 538 kg more than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Because 2000 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 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (230 Nm) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. (203 Nm). This means 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Cavalier | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1247 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2270 mm |
