1997 Opel Astra vs. 1974 Volvo 245
To start off, 1997 Opel Astra is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 245. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 245 would be higher. At 2,127 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volvo 245 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Volvo 245 (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Volvo 245 should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volvo 245 weights approximately 389 kg more than 1997 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Volvo 245 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 1974 Volvo 245. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1974 Volvo 245 (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (103 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1974 Volvo 245 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Opel Astra | 1974 Volvo 245 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | 245 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1394 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
