1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Astra (85 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 335 kg more than 1989 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, 1998 Opel Astra (188 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (103 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 44 L |
