2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (142 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 5 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra.
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, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Astra (204 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra 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 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 10 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 | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 53 L |
