2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 257 kg more than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra 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 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.8 mm | 86 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 | 1129 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.8 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.4 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 52 L |
