2003 Chevrolet Astro vs. 2009 Mazda CX-9
To start off, 2009 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Astro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Astro would be higher. At 4,292 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda CX-9 (273 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Astro. (187 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Astro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 621 kg more than 2009 Mazda CX-9.
Because 2003 Chevrolet Astro 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 2003 Chevrolet Astro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda CX-9, 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 CX-9 (366 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Astro. (339 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Astro.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Astro | 2009 Mazda CX-9 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Astro | CX-9 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4292 cc | 3726 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 76 L |
