2003 Opel Astra vs. 2012 GMC Sierra
To start off, 2012 GMC Sierra is newer by 9 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 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 GMC Sierra (312 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 GMC Sierra weights approximately 596 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 2012 GMC Sierra 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 2012 GMC Sierra. 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, 2012 GMC Sierra (506 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 303 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 2012 GMC Sierra | |
| Make | Opel | GMC |
| Model | Astra | Sierra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 5999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 312 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 506 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| 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 | 1894 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 6580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 4250 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 129 L |
