2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (190 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2002 Opel Astra. (187 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 5 kg more than 2002 Opel 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, 2002 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, 2002 Opel Astra (256 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2002 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | RX-8 | Astra |
Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 190 HP | 187 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 256 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 86 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1415 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4280 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |