2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1997 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,698 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (73 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Opel Astra weights approximately 40 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1997 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 14.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
