2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Astra (134 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 140 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 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 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Opel Astra (188 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda 3 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | 3 | Astra |
Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 105 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 188 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1260 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2620 mm |