1978 Mazda 626 vs. 1999 Opel Astra
To start off, 1999 Opel Astra is newer by 21 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 1,768 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda 626 (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1999 Opel Astra. (88 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Astra weights approximately 195 kg more than 1978 Mazda 626.
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, 1999 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, 1978 Mazda 626 (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 1999 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 626 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
