2005 Mazda Marathon vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda Marathon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda Marathon would be higher. At 2,260 cc, 2005 Mazda Marathon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2005 Mazda Marathon. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda Marathon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda Marathon weights approximately 132 kg more than 2009 Opel Astra.
Because 2005 Mazda Marathon is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Mazda Marathon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda Marathon. (174 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda Marathon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda Marathon | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | Marathon | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 10 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1517 kg | 1385 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 52 L |
