1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 420 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 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 (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2009 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Astra |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 129 Nm | 262 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 86.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1385 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 |