1999 Holden Astra vs. 1996 Mazda 626
To start off, 1999 Holden Astra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Holden Astra (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 626 weights approximately 44 kg more than 1999 Holden Astra.
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, 1999 Holden Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1999 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Holden Astra | 1996 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Astra | 626 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2620 mm |
