1996 De Tomaso Pantera vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 De Tomaso Pantera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 De Tomaso Pantera would be higher. At 5,761 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 De Tomaso Pantera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 De Tomaso Pantera (350 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (174 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 De Tomaso Pantera should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 De Tomaso Pantera weights approximately 12 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 De Tomaso Pantera 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 De Tomaso Pantera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 De Tomaso Pantera (460 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1996 De Tomaso Pantera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 De Tomaso Pantera | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | De Tomaso | Opel |
| Model | Pantera | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5761 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2740 mm |
