2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 280 kg more than 2003 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 (275 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 156 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 14.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.8 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
