2005 Mazda 3 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 90 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2620 mm |
