1978 Mazda 626 vs. 1991 Opel Astra
To start off, 1991 Opel Astra is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Opel Astra (82 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda 626 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1991 Opel Astra.
Because 1978 Mazda 626 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 1978 Mazda 626. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1991 Opel Astra (168 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1991 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 1991 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 626 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2640 mm |
