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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 1 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3.
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 (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 2198 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1297 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.5 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.6 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
