1999 Holden Astra vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Holden Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Holden Astra would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1999 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1999 Holden Astra. 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, 2003 Mazda 3 (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Holden Astra. 2003 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1999 Holden Astra has manual transmission. 1999 Holden Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Holden Astra | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Astra | 3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2850 mm |
