2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,997 cc, 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 28 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, 2005 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, 2005 Opel Astra (180 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1997 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1183 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 11.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 52 L |
