2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (141 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 255 kg more than 2006 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1364 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 173 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 13.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
