1988 Mazda 323 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Astra (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 280 kg more than 1988 Mazda 323. 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, 1996 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mazda 323 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1323 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
