2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 2002 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster 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 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (157 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2002 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 2002 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Astra weights approximately 140 kg more than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Because 2003 Mazda Roadster is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Mazda Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Opel Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2002 Opel Astra (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 2002 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | Roadster | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 52 L |
