2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 10 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 1,698 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1998 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, 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | RX-8 | Astra |
Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1698 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |