1998 Opel Astra vs. 2011 Volvo V50
To start off, 2011 Volvo V50 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo V50 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo V50 weights approximately 408 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 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2011 Volvo V50 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 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Opel Astra | 2011 Volvo V50 | |
Make | Opel | Volvo |
Model | Astra | V50 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1389 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 227 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 127 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1598 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4521 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1499 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2639 mm |