1994 Opel Astra vs. 1991 Volvo 850
To start off, 1994 Opel Astra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,434 cc (5 cylinders), 1991 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Volvo 850 (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1994 Opel Astra. (81 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1994 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Volvo 850 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1994 Opel 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, 1991 Volvo 850 (230 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Opel Astra. (114 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1991 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Opel Astra | 1991 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | 850 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.7 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |
