1998 Opel Astra vs. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 13 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 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 480 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, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (281 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (167 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Opel | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Astra | 159 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 70 L |
