1988 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 Opel Astra
To start off, 2001 Opel Astra is newer by 13 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 3,998 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Astra (437 HP @ 7350 RPM) has 371 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 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.
Because 2001 Opel Astra 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 2001 Opel Astra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Mazda 323, 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, 2001 Opel Astra (531 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 430 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2001 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 | 2001 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | 323 | Astra |
Year Released | 1988 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1324 cc | 3998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 66 HP | 437 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7350 RPM |
Torque | 101 Nm | 531 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |