2004 Holden Astra vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2004 Holden Astra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Holden Astra (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 67 kg more than 2004 Holden Astra.
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, 1996 Volvo 850 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Holden Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Holden Astra | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Holden | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | 850 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1457 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |
