2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2005 Opel Tigra
To start off, 2005 Opel Tigra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2005 Opel Tigra. (70 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Tigra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Tigra weights approximately 65 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 2005 Opel Tigra, 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, 2005 Opel Tigra (170 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Tigra 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 | 2005 Opel Tigra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Tigra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1370 mm |
