2003 Mazda 2 vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 150 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. 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 Opel Astra (176 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 2 | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 2 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 52 L |
