1974 Mazda 1000 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda 1000 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1974 Mazda 1000. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 588 kg more than 1974 Mazda 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mazda 1000 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 1974 Mazda 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda 1000. (77 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda 1000. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1974 Mazda 1000 has manual transmission. 1974 Mazda 1000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mazda 1000 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 1000 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 986 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 710 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2500 mm |
