2003 Opel Astra vs. 1997 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Holden Commodore (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Holden Commodore weights approximately 312 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.
Because 1997 Holden Commodore 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 1997 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1997 Holden Commodore (304 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1997 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Opel | Holden |
| Model | Astra | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 3789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2950 mm |
