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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (190 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (69 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. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2008 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, 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 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 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 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 52 L |
