2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 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 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 60 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.
Because 2008 Mazda RX-8 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra, 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, 2006 Opel Astra (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 12.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 52 L |
