1979 Mazda 929 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,769 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 929 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (99 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 929. (83 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 245 kg more than 1979 Mazda 929. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mazda 929 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 Mazda 929. 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 (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 929. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 929 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 929 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1769 cc | 1684 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
