2004 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 3 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 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 480 kg more than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 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, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Cavalier | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1671 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2270 mm |
