1986 Holden Astra vs. 1985 Volvo 740
To start off, 1986 Holden Astra is newer by 1 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 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volvo 740 (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1986 Holden Astra. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volvo 740 should accelerate faster than 1986 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Volvo 740 weights approximately 435 kg more than 1986 Holden Astra. 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, 1986 Holden 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, 1985 Volvo 740 (240 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Holden Astra. (124 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1985 Volvo 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Holden Astra | 1985 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Holden | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | 740 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2780 mm |
