2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra.
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, 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, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra. 2006 Opel Astra 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. 2006 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Astra |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1245 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2329 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 52 L |
