2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 521 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. 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, 1996 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (171 Nm) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (170 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Astra |
Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 155 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 171 Nm | 170 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2620 mm |