2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2002 Holden Vectra
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Holden Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Holden Vectra would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Holden Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (171 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2002 Holden Vectra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2002 Holden Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Holden Vectra weights approximately 120 kg more than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Holden 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, 2002 Holden Vectra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Holden Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2002 Holden Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Holden |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2710 mm |
