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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Astra (239 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 61 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. 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, 2011 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 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 | 1999 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 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 |
