1997 Opel Astra vs. 1996 Volvo S80
To start off, 1997 Opel Astra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 2,978 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (73 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo S80 weights approximately 160 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 Volvo S80 (380 Nm) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (165 Nm). This means 1996 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra. 1996 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1997 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1997 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Opel Astra | 1996 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | S80 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 2978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2800 mm |
