1996 Opel Astra vs. 1997 Acura EL
To start off, 1997 Acura EL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Acura EL (127 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Acura EL should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 71 kg more than 1997 Acura EL.
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 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Acura EL. (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Acura EL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 1997 Acura EL | |
| Make | Opel | Acura |
| Model | Astra | EL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1079 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1704 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1394 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2619 mm |
