1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1983 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1983 Vauxhall Astra. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1983 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 185 kg more than 1983 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Vauxhall 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, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Vauxhall Astra. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1983 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Vauxhall |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2520 mm |
