2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,364 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2007 Opel Astra. (90 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2007 Opel Astra.
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, 2007 Opel 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 1364 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 125 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 52 L |
