1998 Saturn SL vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Saturn SL would be higher. At 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Saturn SL (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Saturn SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 175 kg more than 1998 Saturn SL.
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, 1998 Saturn SL (159 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Saturn SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra. 2006 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1998 Saturn SL has manual transmission. 1998 Saturn SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Saturn SL | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Saturn | Opel |
| Model | SL | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 1364 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
