2004 Mazda 6 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Mazda 6 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 6 (220 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 6 weights approximately 277 kg more than 1996 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, 2004 Mazda 6 (257 Nm) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (165 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 6 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 6 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1537 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 52 L |
