2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1999 Opel Zafira
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Opel Zafira. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Opel Zafira 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 77 more horse power than 1999 Opel Zafira. (101 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Zafira. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Zafira weights approximately 243 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, 1999 Opel 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (220 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Zafira. (150 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Zafira.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1999 Opel Zafira | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Zafira |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 58 L |
