2003 Holden Statesman vs. 2005 Holden Astra
To start off, 2005 Holden Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Holden Statesman 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 106 more horse power than 2005 Holden Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 2005 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Holden Statesman weights approximately 447 kg more than 2005 Holden 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, 2005 Holden 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 202 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Holden Astra. (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Holden Astra. 2003 Holden Statesman has automatic transmission and 2005 Holden Astra has manual transmission. 2005 Holden 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 | 2005 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Holden | Holden |
| Model | Statesman | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| 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 | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 375 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2620 mm |
