1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 7 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (99 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 310 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, 2005 Opel Astra (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1684 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.7:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
