1997 Buick Century vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (174 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1997 Buick Century. (165 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1997 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Century weights approximately 110 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra.
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, both vehicles can yield 251 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1997 Buick Century has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Buick Century | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Buick | Opel |
| Model | Century | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.8 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 12.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 52 L |
