1997 Maserati Shamal vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 1997 Maserati Shamal is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,217 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Maserati Shamal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Maserati Shamal (321 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Maserati Shamal should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Maserati Shamal weights approximately 60 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Maserati Shamal 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 Maserati Shamal. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 Maserati Shamal (444 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 279 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 Maserati Shamal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Maserati Shamal | 1996 Opel Astra | |
Make | Maserati | Opel |
Model | Shamal | Astra |
Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3217 cc | 1686 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 321 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 444 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1260 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4110 mm | 4120 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2400 mm |