1974 Mazda 818 vs. 1991 Opel Astra
To start off, 1991 Opel Astra is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Opel Astra (82 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1974 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Opel Astra weights approximately 250 kg more than 1974 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1991 Opel Astra (168 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1991 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mazda 818 | 1991 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 818 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2640 mm |
