2005 Opel Astra vs. 1996 Renault Spider
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Renault Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Renault Spider would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Renault Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (198 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1996 Renault Spider. (141 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 780 kg more than 1996 Renault Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Renault Spider is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Renault Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Opel Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Spider. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Astra | 1996 Renault Spider | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Astra | Spider |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1979 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 990 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2350 mm |
