2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 5 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. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 72 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, 2008 Opel Astra (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1600 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 172 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 13.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 4.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
