2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2002 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,978 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 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 180 kg more than 2002 Opel Astra.
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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (306 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Opel Astra. (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2002 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 156 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
