1997 Mazda 121 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 9 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), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 121. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 293 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, 2006 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 121. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 121 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| 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 | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 991 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2620 mm |
