1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 22 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 339 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, 2011 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 52 L |
