2005 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 15 kg more than 2012 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, 2005 Opel Astra (201 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2005 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2005 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Astra | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Opel | Mazda |
| Model | Astra | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 4.2 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 6.4 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
