2003 Opel Astra vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (174 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 20 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Opel Astra (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Opel | Mazda |
| Model | Astra | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.9 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.9 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 60 L |
