2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, both 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata and 2006 Opel Astra were released in the same year (2006). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (160 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra.
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, 2006 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra. 2006 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 52 L |
