2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1999 Holden Astra
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Holden Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Holden Astra would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (190 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1999 Holden Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 274 kg more than 1999 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda RX-8 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 RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Holden 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Holden Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Holden Astra. 1999 Holden Astra has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Holden Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1999 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Holden |
| Model | RX-8 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1146 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
