2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 3,786 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (240 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo weights approximately 515 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 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 Monte Carlo (380 Nm) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Monte Carlo | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3786 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 50 L |
