2008 Chevrolet Uplander vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Uplander is newer by 5 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 3,880 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Uplander should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet Uplander weights approximately 1175 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, 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 (326 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Uplander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2008 Chevrolet Uplander has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2003 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 | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Uplander | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3880 cc | 1498 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 | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 326 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 50 L |
