2003 Chevrolet Trans Sport vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Trans Sport. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Trans Sport would be higher. At 3,350 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Trans Sport is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Trans Sport (183 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Trans Sport should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Trans Sport, 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, 2003 Chevrolet Trans Sport (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Trans Sport will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Trans Sport | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Trans Sport | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3350 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
