2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2010 Opel Astra
To start off, 2010 Opel Astra is newer by 4 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2010 Opel Astra. (197 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2010 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Opel Astra weights approximately 197 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, 2010 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, 2010 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2010 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 | 2010 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 8.1 seconds |
| 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 | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 52 L |
