2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2009 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 27 kg more than 2009 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 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, 2009 Opel Astra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda RX-8. 2009 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda RX-8 | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 191 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.6 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.6 L/100km | 6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 52 L |
