1996 Opel Astra vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra 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 1,684 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (99 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 215 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 Opel Astra (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (128 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Astra | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1684 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
