1996 Chevrolet Impala vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 16 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 59 more horse power than 2012 Opel Astra. (197 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 2012 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 465 kg more than 2012 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, 2012 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 185 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Opel Astra. 1996 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 2012 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2012 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Impala | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Impala | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 447 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1850 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 52 L |
