2004 Opel Astra vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 310 kg more than 1996 Opel 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, 2004 Opel Astra (139 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (111 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2004 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Opel Astra | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Astra | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 139 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2620 mm |
