2003 Holden Astra vs. 2008 Mazda CX-9
To start off, 2008 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Holden Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Holden Astra would be higher. At 3,726 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda CX-9 (270 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 2003 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 2003 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda CX-9 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2003 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mazda CX-9 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Holden Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda CX-9 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Mazda CX-9 (370 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Holden Astra. 2008 Mazda CX-9 has automatic transmission and 2003 Holden Astra has manual transmission. 2003 Holden Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Holden Astra | 2008 Mazda CX-9 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Astra | CX-9 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3726 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2880 mm |
