2003 Opel Astra vs. 1996 Volvo V40
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 V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 80 kg more than 1996 Volvo V40. 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, 2003 Opel Astra (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (164 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo V40 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo V40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Opel Astra | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
Make | Opel | Volvo |
Model | Astra | V40 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1731 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 171 Nm | 164 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2570 mm |