1995 Opel Astra vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,388 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1995 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1995 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 382 kg more than 1995 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mazda RX-8 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 2011 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Opel Astra, 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, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Opel Astra. (103 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Opel Astra | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Opel | Mazda |
| Model | Astra | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1008 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
