2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Opel Speedster
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Speedster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Speedster would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Speedster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2003 Opel Speedster. (145 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Speedster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 453 kg more than 2003 Opel Speedster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Opel Speedster 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 2003 Opel Speedster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3, 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, 2003 Opel Speedster (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Speedster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2003 Opel Speedster | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Speedster |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 876 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.4 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 12.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 36 L |
