2004 Chevrolet Venture vs. 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Venture is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 3,343 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Venture is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Venture (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Venture should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Venture weights approximately 781 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Venture, 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 Venture (285 Nm) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Venture will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Venture | 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Venture | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3343 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1746 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2270 mm |
