1990 Alfa Romeo SZ vs. 2003 Holden Astra
To start off, 2003 Holden Astra is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Alfa Romeo SZ. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Alfa Romeo SZ would be higher. At 2,957 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Alfa Romeo SZ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Alfa Romeo SZ (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2003 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Alfa Romeo SZ should accelerate faster than 2003 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Alfa Romeo SZ weights approximately 110 kg more than 2003 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 Alfa Romeo SZ. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1990 Alfa Romeo SZ (245 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1990 Alfa Romeo SZ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Alfa Romeo SZ | 2003 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Holden |
| Model | SZ | Astra |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2957 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |
