1997 Chevrolet Express 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 Chevrolet Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express would be higher. At 4,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Express (217 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 1054 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Chevrolet Express 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 1997 Chevrolet Express. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1997 Chevrolet Express (379 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Express | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4997 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 379 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2364 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2700 mm |
