1998 Opel Astra vs. 2004 Vauxhall VX220
To start off, 2004 Vauxhall VX220 is newer by 6 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Vauxhall VX220 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Vauxhall VX220 (217 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Vauxhall VX220 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 190 kg more than 2004 Vauxhall VX220.
Because 2004 Vauxhall VX220 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 2004 Vauxhall VX220. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2004 Vauxhall VX220 (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Vauxhall VX220 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 2004 Vauxhall VX220 | |
| Make | Opel | Vauxhall |
| Model | Astra | VX220 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2340 mm |
