2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (237 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 78 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. 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, 2008 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 156 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 244 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 6.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
