2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 80 kg more than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2007 Mazda RX-8 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (188 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Mazda RX-8 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | RX-8 | Astra |
Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1306 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 188 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1260 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |