2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1999 Opel Signum
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Opel Signum. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Opel Signum would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1999 Opel Signum. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 39 kg more than 1999 Opel Signum. 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, 1999 Opel Signum, 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, 1999 Opel Signum (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1999 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Signum |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 60 L |
