2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2002 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2002 Vauxhall Astra. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 90 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, 2002 Vauxhall Astra (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2002 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Vauxhall |
| Model | 3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2620 mm |
