2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 9 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 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 95 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 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, 1996 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Astra 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 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Astra |
Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 124 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2620 mm |