1996 Opel Astra vs. 2003 Opel Frontera
To start off, 2003 Opel Frontera is newer by 7 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 3,165 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Frontera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Frontera (202 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Frontera should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Frontera weights approximately 570 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 2003 Opel Frontera is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel Frontera will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Opel Frontera (290 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Frontera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2003 Opel Frontera | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Astra | Frontera |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 3165 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2470 mm |
