1996 Volvo 960 vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 2,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 960 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 960 (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2011 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 960 should accelerate faster than 2011 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 960 weights approximately 270 kg more than 2011 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Volvo 960 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Volvo 960. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Opel Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1996 Volvo 960 (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 960 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo 960 | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Volvo | Opel |
| Model | 960 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2472 cc | 1384 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2620 mm |
