1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1994 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (114 HP) has 47 more horse power than 1994 Opel Astra. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1994 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 12 kg more than 1994 Opel 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 (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Opel Astra. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Opel Astra. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 1994 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1994 Opel 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 | 1994 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1128 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
