1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 Opel Astra
To start off, 2001 Opel Astra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Astra (152 HP) has 78 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Astra weights approximately 335 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. 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, 2001 Opel Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2001 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 152 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 53 L |
