1996 Opel Astra vs. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 12 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 135 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Opel | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Astra | 156 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.7 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2600 mm |
