1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 30 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 330 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, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 626 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
