2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1981 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Opel Ascona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Opel Ascona (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (108 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Opel Ascona should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 60 kg more than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Let's talk about torque, 1981 Opel Ascona (154 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1981 Opel Ascona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1981 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 40 L |
