1986 Holden Astra vs. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Holden Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Holden Astra would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP) has 68 more horse power than 1986 Holden Astra. (70 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 170 kg more than 1986 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Holden Astra, 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, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Holden Astra. (115 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
1986 Holden Astra | 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Holden | Mazda |
Model | Astra | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1986 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1486 cc | 1839 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 70 HP | 138 HP |
Torque | 115 Nm | 162 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 1025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2270 mm |