1999 Holden Astra vs. 1998 Maserati Shamal
To start off, 1999 Holden Astra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Maserati Shamal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Maserati Shamal would be higher. At 3,217 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Maserati Shamal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Maserati Shamal (322 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 1999 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Maserati Shamal should accelerate faster than 1999 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Maserati Shamal weights approximately 170 kg more than 1999 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Maserati Shamal is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Maserati Shamal. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Holden Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Maserati Shamal (444 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 279 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Maserati Shamal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Holden Astra | 1998 Maserati Shamal | |
| Make | Holden | Maserati |
| Model | Astra | Shamal |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3217 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 322 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 444 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2520 mm |
