1998 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Volvo S80
To start off, 2012 Volvo S80 is newer by 14 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 2,400 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo S80 (217 HP) has 143 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo S80 weights approximately 639 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 2012 Volvo S80 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo S80 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, 2012 Volvo S80 (440 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2012 Volvo S80 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. 2012 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 2012 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | S80 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 217 HP |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1759 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2776 mm |
