2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2002 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 60 kg more than 2002 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, 2002 Opel Astra (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2002 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
