2003 Holden Statesman vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Holden Statesman is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Holden Statesman (229 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Holden Statesman weights approximately 525 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Holden Statesman 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 2003 Holden Statesman. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra, 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, 2003 Holden Statesman (375 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2003 Holden Statesman has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Holden Statesman will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Holden Statesman | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Holden | Opel |
| Model | Statesman | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 375 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2620 mm |
