1976 Mazda 818 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,388 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mazda 818 (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mazda 818 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 3 kg more than 1976 Mazda 818.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mazda 818. 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 (103 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mazda 818 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 818 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1002 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2610 mm |
