2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,490 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 111 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1998 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 (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 156 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2490 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2620 mm |
