When it comes to choosing the perfect vehicle, comparing every minute detail is essential for informed decision-making. In the realm of compact hatchbacks, the Mazda 2 and the Opel Corsa stand out in their class, offering unique traits that cater to a varied audience. As we delve into their specifications, it's crucial to meticulously evaluate how each parameter measures up, covering everything from model information to offroad capabilities and electric vehicle features, ensuring you grasp the full picture for both contenders.
In terms of sheer size, the Mazda 2 extends a tad longer at 4080 mm compared to the Opel Corsa's 4061 mm, and it also leads in wheelbase, offering a stretched 2570 mm against the Corsa's 2538 mm. However, the Opel Corsa takes the prize in width at 1765 mm, edging out the Mazda's 1695 mm. With mirrors included, Mazda regains some territory with a broader 2028 mm over the Opel's 1960 mm. Towering slightly higher, the Mazda 2 stands at 1515 mm to the Opel's diminutive 1435 mm. Ground clearance is an arena where Mazda leads, albeit no definitive measurement for the Opel is provided. Turning to the critical matter of maneuverability, Opel's turning circle is superior at 10.70 m when compared to Mazda's model-dependent 10.20 m to 10.50 m, offering a smoother glide around tighter corners.
Boot capacity often sways opinions, and here, the Mazda 2 presents a reliable 280 liters, but Opel Corsa swings with variability ranging from 267 liters to 309 liters, engine variant dependent; thus, both cars flex their utility muscles depending on your powertrain choice. Expand the area by folding the seats, and the Opel Corsa emerges triumphant with 1081 liters over Mazda's 950 liters, revealing a cavernous space for groceries or gear. Isofix fittings as standard and an identical quota of 5 seats across both vehicles indicate a par on the family practicality front.
Peering under the hood, Mazda confidently wields a 6-gear transmission, slightly ahead of Opel Corsa's variable 1 to 8 gears, influenced by the choice of either an economical electric drive or a sprightly automatic 1.2 DI Turbo. The Mazda 2's steadfast 4 cylinders surpass the Corsa's 3, nodding to a traditional preference for combustion stability. Top speeds indicate a close race; the Mazda 2 runs from 171 to 200 km/h, and Opel Corsa's spectrum spans from 150 to 208 km/h, hinting at slight supremacy in Opel's upper reaches. Power-wise, Mazda offers a range between 55 kW and 85 kW, whereas Opel fires up the competition with a 55 kW to 115 kW stretch, showcasing a higher potential output. In the sprint from 0-100 km/h, both vehicles are neck and neck, with Mazda clocking between 9.1 and 12.1 seconds versus Opel's range from 8.1 to 13.2 seconds, making either vehicle a viable contender for quick jaunts.
The Mazda's fuel tank can muster up to 44 liters, while the Opel Corsa's tank plays between 40 and 44 liters, minimal difference but vital for the longer hauls. CO2 emissions are tight with Mazda expelling between 107.0 and 122.0 g/km compared to Corsa's 114.0 to 122.0 g/km range, suggesting a greener tilt towards Mazda's lineup. Tire size furthers individuality with Mazda's standard 185/65R15H falling short to Opel's wider 195/55R16. Noise levels also draw an interesting parallel; Mazda ranges from 64 dB to 72 dB, and Opel holds ground between 64 dB and 68 dB, potential decibels of difference could sound significant to the discerning ear.
If you top up the shopping with a European caravan, the weight and towing capabilities enter the fray. Mazda's empty weight fluctuates between 1099 kg and 1120 kg, distinctively lighter than the Opel Corsa at 1110 kg to a hefty 1544 kg. Braked trailer towing capacity sees Mazda hauling a uniform 900 kg, with Opel stretching from 500 kg to a robust 1200 kg, showing a diverse selection based on the model chosen. The Mazda's roof can bear 50 kg, which Opel beats with a 70 kg threshold, and similarly, Opel's towbar can endure more with a 5 kg advantage over Mazda, giving it the edge for the adventure-bound with heavy loads.
As we embrace an electric future, Opel Corsa highlights its range credentials with an electric variant capable of reaching between 354.0 and 405.0 km, a testament to modern engineering. The total battery capacity indeed makes a statement, ranging from 50.0 k to 54.0 k, with usable capacity not far behind, suggesting that Opel is channeling efforts into a cleaner, electron-fueled epoch. As a singular option in this domain, the electric Opel Corsa sets itself apart, offering an eco-friendly alternative to the traditionalist Mazda 2.