2004 Chevrolet Astro vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Chevrolet Astro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Chevrolet Astro would be higher. At 4,294 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Astro (190 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Astro should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 645 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Chevrolet Astro 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 2004 Chevrolet Astro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3, 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, 2004 Chevrolet Astro (339 Nm) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (187 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Astro | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Astro | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4294 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 102.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 102 L | 55 L |
