1998 Oldsmobile Alero vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Oldsmobile Alero would be higher. At 3,392 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Oldsmobile Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (174 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. (168 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 10 kg more than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. 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, 1998 Oldsmobile Alero (271 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1998 Oldsmobile Alero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Oldsmobile Alero | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Opel |
| Model | Alero | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3392 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 52 L |
