1981 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1981 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Astra (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 140 kg more than 1981 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mazda RX-7. 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 (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Mazda RX-7 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | RX-7 | Astra |
Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2620 mm |