2003 Holden Astra vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Holden Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Holden Astra would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2003 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 3 kg more than 2003 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Holden Astra. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 2003 Holden Astra has manual transmission. 2003 Holden Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Holden Astra | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Holden | Mazda |
Model | Astra | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 159 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 188 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 1155 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1250 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2340 mm |