1997 Holden Commodore vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Holden Commodore (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (178 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Holden Commodore weights approximately 225 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Holden Commodore 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 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Holden Commodore (304 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (230 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1997 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Holden Commodore | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Holden | Opel |
| Model | Commodore | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3789 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2620 mm |
