2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Vectra weights approximately 5 kg more than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Opel 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, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (128 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1430 mm |
