1996 Opel Astra vs. 2009 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander 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 3,456 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 182 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 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2009 Toyota Highlander 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. 2009 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2009 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Opel | Toyota |
| Model | Astra | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 3456 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2800 mm |
