2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 9 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 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (185 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1996 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 156 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
