2003 Mazda RX-8 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 RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,308 cc, 2003 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (98 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 115 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mazda RX-8 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 RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Opel Astra (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda RX-8 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | RX-8 | Astra |
Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1248 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 98 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 13.6 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1310 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 52 L |