2003 Holden Astra vs. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 2003 Holden Astra is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Alfa Romeo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 (185 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2003 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 2003 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 268 kg more than 2003 Holden 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, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 (259 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Holden Astra. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 has automatic transmission and 2003 Holden Astra has manual transmission. 2003 Holden Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Holden Astra | 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | Holden | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Astra | 164 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2959 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 259 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2670 mm |
