1996 Opel Astra vs. 2011 Kia Forte
To start off, 2011 Kia Forte is newer by 15 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Forte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Forte (156 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Forte weights approximately 111 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, 2011 Kia Forte (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Forte will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2011 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Opel | Kia |
| Model | Astra | Forte |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| 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 | 1261 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4341 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2649 mm |
