1996 Opel Astra vs. 2011 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2011 Subaru Outback 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Subaru Outback (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Subaru Outback weights approximately 458 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.
Because 2011 Subaru Outback is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Subaru Outback will offer significantly more control. 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 Subaru Outback (335 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2011 Subaru Outback 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. 2011 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2011 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Opel | Subaru |
| Model | Astra | Outback |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1608 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1669 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2741 mm |
