2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1991 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,700 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1991 Opel Astra. (56 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1991 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 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 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Opel 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Opel Astra. (105 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1991 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 75 L |
