2001 Opel Astra vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,399 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S40 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2001 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 83 kg more than 2001 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, 2008 Volvo S40 (231 Nm) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Astra. (170 Nm). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | S40 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1433 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 62 L |
