1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 29 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, 2007 Opel Astra (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Astra weights approximately 95 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, 2007 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, 2007 Opel Astra (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 626 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
