2003 Mazda 6 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 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 6. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 20 kg more than 2003 Mazda 6. 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 2012 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, 2012 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 6. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 6. 2003 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 2012 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2012 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 | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 6 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 8.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 52 L |
