2001 Opel Astra vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2001 Opel Astra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 1,731 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S40 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2001 Opel Astra. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Astra weights approximately 140 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40.
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, 1996 Volvo S40 (164 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Opel Astra | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | S40 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 58 L |
