1997 Opel Astra vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 1997 Opel Astra is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda 626 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1997 Opel Astra.
Because 1978 Mazda 626 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 1978 Mazda 626. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1978 Mazda 626 (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra. 1978 Mazda 626 has automatic transmission and 1997 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1997 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Mazda 626 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Opel Astra | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
Make | Opel | Mazda |
Model | Astra | 626 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 125 Nm | 142 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1170 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |