1979 Dodge Mirada vs. 1995 Opel Astra
To start off, 1995 Opel Astra is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Dodge Mirada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Dodge Mirada would be higher. At 5,209 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Dodge Mirada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Dodge Mirada (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1995 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Dodge Mirada should accelerate faster than 1995 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Dodge Mirada weights approximately 495 kg more than 1995 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Dodge Mirada 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 1979 Dodge Mirada. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 1979 Dodge Mirada (343 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Opel Astra. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Dodge Mirada will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Dodge Mirada | 1995 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Mirada | Astra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5209 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 343 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2620 mm |
