1997 Oldsmobile Alero vs. 1980 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 3,400 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Oldsmobile Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero (170 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero should accelerate faster than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero weights approximately 705 kg more than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Oldsmobile Alero (271 Nm) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. (102 Nm). This means 1997 Oldsmobile Alero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero has automatic transmission and 1980 Vauxhall Astra has manual transmission. 1980 Vauxhall Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Oldsmobile Alero | 1980 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Vauxhall |
| Model | Alero | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3400 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
