2012 Opel Astra vs. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA
To start off, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2012 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2012 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. (165 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 443 kg more than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Opel Astra | 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA | |
| Make | Opel | Mazda |
| Model | Astra | MX-5 MIATA |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4032 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 48 L |
