1997 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC90 is newer by 15 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 2,400 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo XC90 (185 HP) has 96 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (89 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 1005 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 2012 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Volvo XC90 (340 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Opel Astra | 2012 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 185 HP |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2860 mm |
