1980 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1980 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1980 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1980 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 365 kg more than 1980 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Astra (241 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mazda RX-7 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-7 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1979 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
