2003 Opel Astra vs. 2011 Chevrolet Express
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Express is newer by 8 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 6,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Express (260 HP @ 3100 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 1134 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 2011 Chevrolet Express 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 2011 Chevrolet Express. 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, 2011 Chevrolet Express (711 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 508 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 2011 Chevrolet Express | |
| Make | Opel | Chevrolet |
| Model | Astra | Express |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 6600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 711 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 2432 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 5692 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2012 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 2070 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 3429 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 117 L |
