2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. Both 2003 Mazda 3 and 2005 Opel Astra are equipped with a 1,598 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 240 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3.
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, 2003 Mazda 3 (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
