1998 Jensen SV-8 vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Jensen SV-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Jensen SV-8 would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Jensen SV-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Jensen SV-8 (321 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 2012 Opel Astra. (197 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Jensen SV-8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 85 kg more than 1998 Jensen SV-8.
Because 1998 Jensen SV-8 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 1998 Jensen SV-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1998 Jensen SV-8 (440 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1998 Jensen SV-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Jensen SV-8 | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Jensen | Opel |
| Model | SV-8 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4601 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.2 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 52 L |
