1976 Mazda 818 vs. 2002 Opel Astra
To start off, 2002 Opel Astra is newer by 26 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1976 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Astra weights approximately 198 kg more than 1976 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 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, 2002 Opel Astra (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 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 | 2002 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 818 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1002 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2610 mm |
