2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 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 69 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 135 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, 2006 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 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1364 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 173 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 13.7 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 | 1095 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1250 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 52 L |
