1996 Opel Astra vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 1997 Volvo S70 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 2,319 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S70 (238 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S70 weights approximately 495 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.
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, 1997 Volvo S70 (330 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (111 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | S70 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |
