2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 Holden Astra
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Holden Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Holden Astra would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2002 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 235 kg more than 2002 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mazda RX-8 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 RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Holden 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mazda RX-8 | 2002 Holden Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Holden |
Model | RX-8 | Astra |
Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4120 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2610 mm |