1996 Opel Astra vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 10 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 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (149 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 365 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, 2006 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Astra | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
