2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 80 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, 2008 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 (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1589 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 12.6 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 | 1150 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 52 L |
