1997 Mazda 121 vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (125 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 334 kg more than 1997 Mazda 121. 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, 2004 Opel Astra (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 121 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 121 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2700 mm |
