1975 Mazda Cosmo vs. 1981 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1981 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 2,292 cc (2 cylinders), 1975 Mazda Cosmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Mazda Cosmo (115 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 Mazda Cosmo should accelerate faster than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Mazda Cosmo weights approximately 324 kg more than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Mazda Cosmo 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 1975 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1975 Mazda Cosmo (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1975 Mazda Cosmo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Mazda Cosmo | 1981 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Vauxhall |
| Model | Cosmo | Astra |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1164 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2520 mm |
