1979 Mazda RX-2 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1979 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 240 kg more than 1979 Mazda RX-2.
Because 1979 Mazda RX-2 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 RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Opel Astra (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda RX-2. (158 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda RX-2 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-2 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2620 mm |
