2003 Mazda 6 vs. 2002 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Mazda 6 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 6 (159 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2002 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2002 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 405 kg more than 2002 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mazda 6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 will offer significantly more control. 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 6 (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Opel Astra. (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Opel Astra. 2003 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 2002 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2002 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 6 | 2002 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 6 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 52 L |
