2003 Holden Astra vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2003 Holden Astra is newer by 4 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Holden Astra (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Holden Astra weights approximately 125 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Holden 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, 2003 Holden Astra (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Holden Astra | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Holden | Mazda |
Model | Astra | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 112 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 124 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2270 mm |