1975 Mazda RX-3 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1975 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 410 kg more than 1975 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1975 Mazda RX-3 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 RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Opel Astra (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Mazda RX-3. (136 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Mazda RX-3 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1964 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
