2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Vauxhall Vectra
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Vauxhall Vectra would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Vauxhall Vectra weights approximately 421 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, 2003 Vauxhall Vectra, 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, both vehicles can yield 167 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2003 Vauxhall Vectra has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Vauxhall Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2003 Vauxhall Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Vauxhall |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1476 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1510 mm |
