1974 Mazda RX-4 vs. 2002 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2002 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mazda RX-4 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2002 Vauxhall Astra. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mazda RX-4 should accelerate faster than 2002 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 240 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-4.
Because 1974 Mazda RX-4 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 RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Vauxhall 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, 1974 Mazda RX-4 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Vauxhall Astra. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1974 Mazda RX-4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mazda RX-4 | 2002 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Vauxhall |
| Model | RX-4 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
