1973 Mazda 818 vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Astra (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1973 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Astra weights approximately 570 kg more than 1973 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mazda 818 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 1973 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mazda 818 | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 818 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1270 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2710 mm |
