1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette would be higher. At 3,349 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette (183 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (174 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette weights approximately 335 kg more than 2003 Opel 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 Silhouette (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Opel |
| Model | Silhouette | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3349 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2740 mm |
