2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1999 Vauxhall Zafira
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Vauxhall Zafira. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Vauxhall Zafira would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (149 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1999 Vauxhall Zafira. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1999 Vauxhall Zafira. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Vauxhall Zafira weights approximately 325 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, 1999 Vauxhall Zafira, 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 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Vauxhall Zafira. (170 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Vauxhall Zafira. 1999 Vauxhall Zafira has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Vauxhall Zafira will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1999 Vauxhall Zafira | |
| Make | Mazda | Vauxhall |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Zafira |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1250 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2700 mm |
