1998 Opel Astra vs. 2006 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2006 Pontiac Solstice is newer by 8 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 2,399 cc, 2006 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Pontiac Solstice (177 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Pontiac Solstice weights approximately 227 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.
Because 2006 Pontiac Solstice 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 2006 Pontiac Solstice. 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, 2006 Pontiac Solstice (225 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 2006 Pontiac Solstice | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Astra | Solstice |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2399 cc |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 87.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 97.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1347 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2420 mm |
