1997 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1997 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (174 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 100 kg more than 1997 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1997 Mazda RX-7 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 1997 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda RX-7 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-7 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2740 mm |
