2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2011 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. (138 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2011 Chevrolet Cruze.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, 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, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze (200 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2011 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Cruze |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 59 L |
