2003 Holden Astra vs. 2009 Mazda 6
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 is newer by 6 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 6 (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2003 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 6 weights approximately 218 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.
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, 2009 Mazda 6 (184 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Holden Astra | 2009 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Astra | 6 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| 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 | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2730 mm |
