1996 Chevrolet Lumina vs. 2004 Chevrolet Astro
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Astro is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Lumina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Lumina would be higher. At 4,294 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina (200 HP) has 13 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Astro. (187 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Astro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 420 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Lumina.
Because 2004 Chevrolet Astro 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 2004 Chevrolet Astro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina, 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, 2004 Chevrolet Astro (339 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Lumina. (311 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Lumina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Lumina | 2004 Chevrolet Astro | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chevrolet |
| Model | Lumina | Astro |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3789 cc | 4294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 187 HP |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 102.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2830 mm |
