2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 123 kg more than 2004 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 52 L |
