1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 15 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 7,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Express (286 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2012 Opel Astra. (197 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2012 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 1039 kg more than 2012 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, 2012 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 (555 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Opel Astra. 1997 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 2012 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2012 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Express | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7439 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 555 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2424 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2620 mm |
