1996 Opel Astra vs. 2000 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 4 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 (118 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 185 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, 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (111 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2000 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Opel | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Astra | 146 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2600 mm |
