1989 Vauxhall Astra vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1989 Vauxhall Astra. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1989 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 475 kg more than 1989 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Vauxhall Astra. (103 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Vauxhall Astra | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | S40 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2650 mm |
