2003 Opel Astra vs. 1996 Volvo S80
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 2,978 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (174 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo S80 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2003 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, 1996 Volvo S80 (380 Nm) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (251 Nm). This means 1996 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 1996 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1996 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | S80 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2800 mm |
