1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 15 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 370 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, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2008 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Astra |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1796 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 186 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 52 L |
