2006 Mazda 6 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Mazda 6 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,964 cc, 2006 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 6 (215 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 6 weights approximately 5 kg more than 2003 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, 2006 Mazda 6 (270 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 6 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 6 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2964 cc | 1796 cc |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.7 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 10.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 53 L |
