2003 Opel Astra vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo S70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S70 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S70 (162 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S70 weights approximately 185 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, 1997 Volvo S70 (221 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 1997 Volvo S70 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. 1997 Volvo S70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | S70 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 68 L |
