1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 28 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, 2006 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 108 kg more than 1978 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 626 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
