2002 Mazda 323 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2002 Mazda 323 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda 323 (97 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 323 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. 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, 2002 Mazda 323 (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 323 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2620 mm |
