2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,796 cc, 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (130 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 325 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (166 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | RX-8 | Astra |
Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1796 cc |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 130 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 166 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 80.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 88.2 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1103 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 52 L |