1999 Holden Astra vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 8 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1999 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 275 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 2007 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 2007 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Holden Astra | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Astra | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2710 mm |
