1998 Opel Astra vs. 2005 Volvo V40
To start off, 2005 Volvo V40 is newer by 7 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), 2005 Volvo V40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V40 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V40 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V40 weights approximately 250 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, 2005 Volvo V40 (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 2005 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | V40 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
