1997 Opel Astra vs. 2006 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2006 Smart ForFour is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart ForFour (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Opel Astra weights approximately 180 kg more than 2006 Smart ForFour.
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, both vehicles can yield 125 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2006 Smart ForFour 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. 2006 Smart ForFour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Opel Astra | 2006 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Opel | Smart |
| Model | Astra | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.6 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 75.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
