2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 5 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (104 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 269 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, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Astra |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 134 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 1385 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 52 L |