2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2002 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 1,997 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 67 more horse power than 2002 Opel Vectra. (100 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2002 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Vectra weights approximately 160 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 2002 Opel Vectra, 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 (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Opel Vectra. (150 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2002 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2650 mm |
