2008 Chevrolet Nubira vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Chevrolet Nubira. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Chevrolet Nubira would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Nubira. (119 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Nubira. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet Nubira weights approximately 291 kg more 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, 2008 Chevrolet Nubira, 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, 2008 Chevrolet Nubira (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Nubira will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Nubira | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Nubira | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 48 L |
