2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 11 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Astra (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 75 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 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, 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, 1998 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 2009 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | RX-8 | Astra |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |