1978 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 238 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-7 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-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-7. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1978 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1978 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-7 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-7 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
