2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, both 2006 Mazda RX-8 and 2006 Opel Astra were released in the same year (2006). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (99 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 7 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2006 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 Opel Astra (260 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 12.5 seconds |
| 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 | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 52 L |
