1971 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1971 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 270 kg more than 1971 Mazda RX-2.
Because 1971 Mazda RX-2 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 1971 Mazda RX-2. 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, 1971 Mazda RX-2 (158 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mazda RX-2 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-2 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1364 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2620 mm |
