1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (134 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2008 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 156 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1363 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
