1996 Volvo S40 vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Astra (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Astra weights approximately 35 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40. 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, 1996 Volvo S40 (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Opel Astra. 2007 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo S40 | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Volvo | Opel |
| Model | S40 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1870 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2620 mm |
