2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 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 2,957 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2011 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 2011 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 (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2003 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2957 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3995 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1245 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2329 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 60 L |
