2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,364 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 101 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, 2008 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 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra. 2008 Opel 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. 2008 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1364 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 13.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 52 L |
