1997 Chevrolet Astro vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Astro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Astro would be higher. At 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Astro. (183 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Astro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 715 kg more than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Because 1997 Chevrolet Astro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Astro will offer significantly more control. 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, 1997 Chevrolet Astro (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Astro | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Astro | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.7 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2710 mm |
