2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, both 2006 Mazda 3 and 2006 Opel Astra were released in the same year (2006). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 280 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.
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, 2006 Opel Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
