2002 Buick Regal vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2002 Buick Regal is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Buick Regal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Buick Regal (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Buick Regal should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Buick Regal weights approximately 300 kg more than 1996 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 Buick Regal (311 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2002 Buick Regal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2002 Buick Regal has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Buick Regal will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Buick Regal | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Buick | Opel |
| Model | Regal | Astra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 52 L |
