2009 Mazda 2 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Mazda 2 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 2. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 50 kg more than 2009 Mazda 2. 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, 2009 Mazda 2 (122 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (111 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 2 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 2 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1347 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2620 mm |
