1999 Holden Astra vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 6 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1999 Holden Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 239 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.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Holden 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Holden Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Holden Astra. 2005 Mazda RX-8 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. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Holden Astra | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Astra | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2680 mm |
