2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Opel Vectra
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 Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Vectra (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Vectra weights approximately 625 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 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, 2008 Opel Vectra (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 60 L |
