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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (148 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. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 183 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Astra | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Opel | Mazda |
| Model | Astra | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 4.9 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 7.4 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 60 L |
