1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 175 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Astra |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2620 mm |
