1996 Opel Astra vs. 1989 Volvo 244
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volvo 244 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volvo 244 (96 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 244 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volvo 244 weights approximately 36 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Volvo 244 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 1989 Volvo 244. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 Opel Astra (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 244. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 244.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Opel Astra | 1989 Volvo 244 | |
Make | Opel | Volvo |
Model | Astra | 244 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 96 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 157 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 82.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 93 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1296 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2660 mm |