2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1991 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1991 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1991 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 50 kg more than 1991 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Opel Astra. (104 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1991 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2530 mm |
