2005 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt (145 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt, 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 Cobalt (203 Nm) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Cobalt | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 48 L |
