1996 Opel Astra vs. 2008 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2008 Skoda Octavia 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Skoda Octavia (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Skoda Octavia should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 381 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 Skoda Octavia (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (111 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2008 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Opel | Skoda |
| Model | Astra | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
