1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2001 Opel Signum
To start off, 2001 Opel Signum is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Signum (144 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Signum weights approximately 443 kg more than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 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 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Opel Signum, 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, 2001 Opel Signum (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (130 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2001 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Signum |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
