2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (229 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (178 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2008 Opel 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, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (230 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (159 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Opel 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 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 237 km/hour | 221 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.7 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.6 L/100km | 7.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 52 L |
