2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1997 Opel Vectra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Opel Vectra weights approximately 15 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Vectra. (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1170 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1430 mm |
