2008 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 190 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra. 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra. 2012 Mazda 3 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. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Opel Astra | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Opel | Mazda |
Model | Astra | 3 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 142 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |