1996 Opel Astra vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra 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 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 504 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, 2003 Opel Vectra (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2003 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Astra | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.5 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1764 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 60 L |
