2004 Opel Astra vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 155 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Opel Astra | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | S40 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 80 L |
