2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,384 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 2012 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 165 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2012 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1384 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 13.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1230 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 52 L |
