2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2001 Opel Astra
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 1 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 2,385 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2001 Opel Astra. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 85 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2001 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 156 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2385 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
