2004 Holden Zafira vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Holden Zafira is newer by 5 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Holden Zafira is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Holden Zafira (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (110 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Holden Zafira should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Holden Zafira weights approximately 340 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, 2004 Holden Zafira, 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, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (241 Nm) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Holden Zafira. (203 Nm). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Holden Zafira.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Holden Zafira | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Zafira | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2270 mm |
