2009 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 3,599 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 296 kg more than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse, 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 Traverse (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Chevrolet Traverse | 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
Model | Traverse | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Crossover | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3599 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 288 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 366 Nm | 129 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 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 | 1261 kg | 965 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2270 mm |