2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2008 Opel Vectra is newer by 7 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Vectra (277 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Vectra weights approximately 558 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, 2008 Opel Vectra, 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 Vectra (355 Nm) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (245 Nm). This means 2008 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2008 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 277 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.1 mm | 74.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2840 mm |
