2004 Opel Astra vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2004 Opel 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, 1996 Volvo 850 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 3250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 43 kg more than 2004 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, 1996 Volvo 850 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (281 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Opel Astra | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | 850 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1493 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
