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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (153 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 135 kg more than 1981 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1981 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
