2007 Mazda 3 vs. 1981 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 391 kg more than 1981 Vauxhall 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, 2007 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda 3 | 1981 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Vauxhall |
| Model | 3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1231 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
