1998 Opel Astra vs. 2011 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2011 Dodge Ram 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 4,701 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Ram (310 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 236 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Ram weights approximately 1417 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 2011 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Ram will offer significantly more control. 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 Dodge Ram (448 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 318 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2011 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 2011 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Opel | Dodge |
| Model | Astra | Ram |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 4701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 310 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5650 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 448 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 2537 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 5820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3560 mm |
