1996 Opel Astra vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 9 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 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 10 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra.
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, 1996 Opel Astra (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Astra | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 3010 mm |
