2003 Mazda 2 vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 9 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 305 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, 2012 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 2 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 52 L |
