1976 Mazda RX-3 vs. 1987 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1987 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Vauxhall Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1976 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 110 kg more than 1976 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1987 Vauxhall Astra (180 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1987 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mazda RX-3 | 1987 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Vauxhall |
| Model | RX-3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1964 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2530 mm |
