2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
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 Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 2,169 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2003 Opel Vectra. (125 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 465 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, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Vectra (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra 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 Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1250 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1510 mm |
