2006 Mazda 6 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Mazda 6 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 6 (139 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra.
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 Mazda 6 (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 6 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 6 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
