2008 Opel Astra vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,909 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (99 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 24 kg more than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Opel Astra (260 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8. 2011 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2008 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2008 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Opel | Mazda |
| Model | Astra | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1909 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 64 L |
