1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 8 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 68 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (149 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 971 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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 176 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Express | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Van | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4997 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 379 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 2364 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2710 mm |
