2005 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 145 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3. 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, 2006 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (225 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.6 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
