1997 Opel Astra vs. 1996 Renault Fifties
To start off, 1997 Opel Astra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Renault Fifties. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Renault Fifties would be higher. At 1,698 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Opel Astra (73 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1996 Renault Fifties. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Fifties. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Opel Astra weights approximately 490 kg more than 1996 Renault Fifties. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Renault Fifties 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 1996 Renault Fifties. 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, 1997 Opel Astra (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Fifties. (93 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Fifties.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Opel Astra | 1996 Renault Fifties | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Astra | Fifties |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1149 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 93 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 60 L |
