2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1979 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 1,308 cc, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1979 Vauxhall Astra. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 567 kg more than 1979 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Vauxhall 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Vauxhall Astra. (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1979 Vauxhall Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Vauxhall |
Model | RX-8 | Astra |
Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1296 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 101 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 855 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4010 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |