1989 Alfa Romeo SZ vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ would be higher. At 2,957 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ weights approximately 140 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ 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 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ (245 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | SZ | Astra |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2957 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
