2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1994 Opel Calibra
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Opel Calibra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Opel Calibra would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Opel Calibra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Opel Calibra (115 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Opel Calibra should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Opel Calibra weights approximately 110 kg more than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Opel Calibra, 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (244 Nm) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Opel Calibra. (173 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Opel Calibra. 1994 Opel Calibra has automatic transmission and 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1994 Opel Calibra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1994 Opel Calibra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Calibra |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2610 mm |
