2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra 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 84 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 22 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. 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, 1998 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (167 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1998 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Astra |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1686 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 188 Nm | 167 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 18.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1170 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 53 L |