2008 Chevrolet Uplander vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Uplander is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 3,880 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Uplander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Uplander (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Uplander should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 5 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Uplander.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Uplander, 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 Uplander (325 Nm) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (244 Nm). This means 2008 Chevrolet Uplander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2008 Chevrolet Uplander has automatic transmission and 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Uplander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Uplander | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Uplander | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3880 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2270 mm |
