1990 Mazda 323 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,720 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Astra (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 170 kg more than 1990 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 (128 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mazda 323 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1720 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2620 mm |
