1985 Volvo 740 vs. 2010 Opel Astra
To start off, 2010 Opel Astra is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1985 Volvo 740. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1985 Volvo 740. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Opel Astra weights approximately 295 kg more than 1985 Volvo 740. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Volvo 740 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 1985 Volvo 740. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volvo 740. (240 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2010 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volvo 740.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Volvo 740 | 2010 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Volvo | Opel |
| Model | 740 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2620 mm |
