1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2006 Opel Tigra
To start off, 2006 Opel Tigra is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Tigra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Tigra (124 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Tigra should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Tigra weights approximately 300 kg more than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Opel Tigra, 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, 2006 Opel Tigra (165 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Tigra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2006 Opel Tigra has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Opel Tigra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2006 Opel Tigra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Tigra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| 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 | 89 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2500 mm |
