2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 130 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.
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, 2004 Mazda 3 (230 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1110 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
