1978 Mazda RX-3 vs. 2002 Opel Astra
To start off, 2002 Opel Astra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,963 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2002 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Astra weights approximately 260 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-3 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 RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 RX-3 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Opel Astra. (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-3 | 2002 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1963 cc | 1387 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
