1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2012 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2012 Opel Insignia 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 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Insignia (217 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (197 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Insignia should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Express.
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 Insignia, 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, 2012 Opel Insignia (350 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (339 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Insignia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Express. 1997 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 2012 Opel Insignia has manual transmission. 2012 Opel Insignia 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 Insignia | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Express | Insignia |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1856 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2737 mm |
