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 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra.
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 (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Opel | Mazda |
| Model | Astra | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1362 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
