2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 213 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, 2011 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 239 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 244 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.6 seconds | 6.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
