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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (162 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2002 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 2002 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2002 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Opel Astra. (127 Nm @ 4000 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 | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1387 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
