1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1999 Vauxhall Zafira
To start off, 1999 Vauxhall Zafira is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1999 Vauxhall Zafira. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1999 Vauxhall Zafira. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Vauxhall Zafira weights approximately 365 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 1999 Vauxhall Zafira, 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 (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Vauxhall Zafira. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Vauxhall Zafira.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1999 Vauxhall Zafira | |
| Make | Mazda | Vauxhall |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Zafira |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2700 mm |
