2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | RX-8 | Astra |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1306 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |