1979 Mazda Montrose vs. 2002 Opel Astra
To start off, 2002 Opel Astra is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda Montrose. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda Montrose would be higher. At 1,978 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1979 Mazda Montrose. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda Montrose. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Astra weights approximately 180 kg more than 1979 Mazda Montrose. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mazda Montrose 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 Montrose. 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, 2002 Opel Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda Montrose. (153 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda Montrose. 1979 Mazda Montrose has automatic transmission and 2002 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2002 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mazda Montrose will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda Montrose | 2002 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | Montrose | Astra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
