2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2003 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2003 Vauxhall Astra. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 78 kg more than 2003 Vauxhall 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, 2003 Vauxhall 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 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Vauxhall Astra. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2003 Vauxhall Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Vauxhall |
Model | RX-8 | Astra |
Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 150 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1350 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 |