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 1,364 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra.
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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra. 2008 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2006 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2006 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1364 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 110 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 52 L |
