1999 Holden Astra vs. 1978 Mazda 818
To start off, 1999 Holden Astra is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Holden Astra (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Holden Astra weights approximately 150 kg more than 1978 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 818 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Holden Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1999 Holden Astra (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Holden Astra | 1978 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Astra | 818 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2320 mm |
