2005 Holden Astra vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Holden Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2005 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2005 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 288 kg more than 2005 Holden 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 V50 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Holden Astra. 2003 Volvo V50 has automatic transmission and 2005 Holden Astra has manual transmission. 2005 Holden Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Holden Astra | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Holden | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | V50 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2760 mm |
