2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 205 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, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | 3 | Astra |
Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1794 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 105 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 80.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 88.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1325 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |