1996 Holden Nova vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Holden Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Holden Nova would be higher. At 1,698 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Holden Nova (105 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Holden Nova should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 135 kg more than 1996 Holden Nova.
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, 1998 Opel Astra (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Holden Nova | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Holden | Opel |
| Model | Nova | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2620 mm |
