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 6,505 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Express (193 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (82 HP @ 4400 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 1015 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 (583 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 398 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (185 Nm @ 1500 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 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6505 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 583 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2400 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2620 mm |
