2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 TVR Chimaera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 TVR Chimaera would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 TVR Chimaera (225 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 122 kg more than 1997 TVR Chimaera.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 TVR Chimaera (373 Nm) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (225 Nm). This means 1997 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Mazda | TVR |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 3946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 94.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 57 L |
