2003 Opel Astra vs. 2002 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Pontiac Solstice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Pontiac Solstice would be higher. At 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Pontiac Solstice (240 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Pontiac Solstice weights approximately 8 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 2002 Pontiac Solstice 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 2002 Pontiac Solstice. 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, 2002 Pontiac Solstice (305 Nm) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (171 Nm). This means 2002 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 2002 Pontiac Solstice has manual transmission. 2002 Pontiac Solstice 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 | 2002 Pontiac Solstice | |
Make | Opel | Pontiac |
Model | Astra | Solstice |
Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2200 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 171 Nm | 305 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1318 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3910 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1150 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2830 mm |