1996 Opel Astra vs. 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle is newer by 11 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 2,460 cc, 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle weights approximately 1339 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 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle 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, 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle 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, 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle (315 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (111 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle 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. 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Caravelle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 2460 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 2344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3010 mm |
