2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 305 kg more than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 2003 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 (244 Nm) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (185 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 2003 Opel Astra 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. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2003 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Astra |
Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 112 HP | 82 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 244 Nm | 185 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 18.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1385 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2620 mm |