1996 Opel Astra vs. 2001 Porsche Boxster
To start off, 2001 Porsche Boxster is newer by 5 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 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Porsche Boxster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Porsche Boxster (254 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Porsche Boxster should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Porsche Boxster weights approximately 60 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 2001 Porsche Boxster 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 2001 Porsche Boxster. 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, 2001 Porsche Boxster (310 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2001 Porsche Boxster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2001 Porsche Boxster | |
| Make | Opel | Porsche |
| Model | Astra | Boxster |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.5 seconds | 5.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 64 L |
