2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,979 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 223 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. 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, 2004 Opel Astra (241 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1979 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.8 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1202 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.5 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
