2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2001 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 2 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 3,998 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Astra (437 HP @ 7350 RPM) has 275 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (162 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 230 kg more than 2001 Opel Astra.
Because 2001 Opel Astra is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 Opel Astra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2001 Opel Astra (531 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 324 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (207 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2001 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 156 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 3998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 437 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 7350 RPM |
| Torque | 207 Nm | 531 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 61 L |
