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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 140 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, 2006 Opel Astra (320 Nm) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (203 Nm). 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 | 2260 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1253 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 5.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
