2005 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (99 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 5 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, 2003 Opel Astra (149 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 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 | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 81.5 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 | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
