1997 Opel Astra vs. 1996 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 1997 Opel Astra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Skoda Octavia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Skoda Octavia would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Skoda Octavia (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (73 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Skoda Octavia should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 5 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.
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, 1996 Skoda Octavia (200 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1996 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Opel Astra | 1996 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Opel | Skoda |
| Model | Astra | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 170 km/hour | 179 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2520 mm |
