1996 Opel Astra vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 13 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 1,388 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 225 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, 2009 Opel Astra (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (103 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Astra | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1384 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
