1991 Opel Astra vs. 1996 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 1996 TVR Chimaera is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 TVR Chimaera (225 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1991 Opel Astra. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 1991 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Opel Astra weights approximately 5 kg more than 1996 TVR Chimaera.
Because 1996 TVR Chimaera 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 1996 TVR Chimaera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1996 TVR Chimaera (373 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Opel Astra. (135 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Opel Astra | 1996 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Opel | TVR |
| Model | Astra | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 94.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 57 L |
