1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1990 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1990 Vauxhall Astra. (53 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1990 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1990 Vauxhall Astra. 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, 1998 Mazda 323 (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Vauxhall Astra. (84 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Vauxhall Astra. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 1990 Vauxhall Astra has manual transmission. 1990 Vauxhall Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1990 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Vauxhall |
| Model | 323 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2530 mm |
