2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2000 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Opel Astra weights approximately 235 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2000 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2000 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Astra |
Year Released | 2003 | 2000 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1795 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 112 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1260 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 52 L |