2006 Opel Astra vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 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 125 kg more than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2011 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 2011 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 (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Astra | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Opel | Mazda |
| Model | Astra | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 64 L |
