1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2009 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2009 Opel Insignia is newer by 12 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 1,956 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Insignia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Insignia (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Insignia should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 2009 Opel Insignia, 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 Insignia (300 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Insignia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2009 Opel Insignia | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Insignia |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1856 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2737 mm |
