1996 Fiat Barchetta vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat Barchetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat Barchetta would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Fiat Barchetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Fiat Barchetta (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Fiat Barchetta should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 205 kg more than 1996 Fiat Barchetta.
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, 1996 Fiat Barchetta (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1996 Fiat Barchetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra. 2008 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1996 Fiat Barchetta has manual transmission. 1996 Fiat Barchetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat Barchetta | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | Barchetta | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2620 mm |
