2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2000 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (229 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2000 Vauxhall Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2000 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 200 kg more than 2000 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Vauxhall 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, 2000 Vauxhall Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (159 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2000 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2000 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Vauxhall |
| Model | RX-8 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
