2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1988 Opel Corsa
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Opel Corsa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Opel Corsa would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1988 Opel Corsa. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Corsa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 387 kg more than 1988 Opel Corsa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Opel Corsa, 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Corsa. (134 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Corsa.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1988 Opel Corsa | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Corsa |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1207 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2350 mm |
