2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 567 kg more than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1837 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 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 | 1785 kg | 1218 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 57 L |
