2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1991 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 17 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1991 Opel Astra. (56 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1991 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 372 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 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, 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Opel Astra. (105 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1991 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1700 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 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 |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 18.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 40 L |
