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 1,998 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 64 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5800 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. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 50 kg more than 1996 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, 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, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (111 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Astra |
Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1389 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 153 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 189 Nm | 111 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1005 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4280 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2620 mm |