1978 Mazda 818 vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 355 kg more than 1978 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 818 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 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Opel Astra (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 818 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 818 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2700 mm |
