2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (99 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 175 kg more than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Opel Astra (230 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda RX-8 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 52 L |
