1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 9 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 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Astra (139 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Astra weights approximately 387 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, 2007 Opel Astra (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1128 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
