2009 Chevrolet Nubira vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata

To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Nubira is newer by 6 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Nubira is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Nubira (108 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (104 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Nubira should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Nubira weights approximately 197 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, 2009 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, 2009 Chevrolet Nubira (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Nubira will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Chevrolet Nubira 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Make Chevrolet Mazda
Model Nubira MX-5 Miata
Year Released 2009 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1598 cc 1596 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 108 HP 104 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 150 Nm 134 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 5000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 79 mm 78 mm
Engine Stroke Size 81.5 mm 83.6 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 9.0:1
Acceleration 0-100mph 11 seconds 9.7 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1313 kg 1116 kg
Vehicle Length 4570 mm 3980 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1230 mm
Wheelbase Size 2610 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 8.3 L/100km 8.1 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 50 L