1998 Opel Astra vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,524 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1998 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | V50 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
