1986 Mazda 626 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1986 Mazda 626. (117 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1986 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 316 kg more than 1986 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mazda 626. (171 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mazda 626 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 626 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 117 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1082 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
