1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 443 kg more than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Opel 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, 2009 Opel Astra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (130 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2009 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Astra |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 52 L |
