1996 Mazda MPV vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MPV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MPV would be higher. At 2,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda MPV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MPV. (114 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MPV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda MPV weights approximately 395 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra.
Because 1996 Mazda MPV 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 1996 Mazda MPV. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MPV. (277 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MPV. 2008 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda MPV has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda MPV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda MPV | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MPV | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 1796 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2620 mm |
