1998 Opel Astra vs. 2008 Volvo V50
To start off, 2008 Volvo V50 is newer by 10 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo V50 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo V50 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, 2008 Volvo V50 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | V50 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
