2003 Opel Astra vs. 2004 Volvo V40
To start off, 2004 Volvo V40 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo V40 (169 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (142 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V40 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo V40 weights approximately 130 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, 2004 Volvo V40 (240 Nm) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (204 Nm). This means 2004 Volvo V40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 2004 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | V40 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 89 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.7 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 60 L |
