2004 Holden Zafira vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Holden Zafira. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Holden Zafira 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 21 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Holden Zafira should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Holden Zafira weights approximately 305 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2004 Holden Zafira (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Holden Zafira will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Holden Zafira | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Zafira | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2340 mm |
