2005 Holden Astra vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Holden Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Holden Astra would be higher. At 2,260 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2005 Holden Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 272 kg more than 2005 Holden 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Holden Astra. (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Holden Astra | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Astra | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2260 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
