1996 Chevrolet Impala vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 5,733 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Impala (256 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 520 kg more than 2006 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Chevrolet Impala 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 Chevrolet Impala. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 Chevrolet Impala (447 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (201 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Impala | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Impala | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 447 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1850 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 52 L |
