2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 3 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (220 Nm) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (125 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Astra |
Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1389 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 178 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 125 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 77.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 73.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2620 mm |