2005 Opel Astra vs. 1996 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 TVR Chimaera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 TVR Chimaera would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 TVR Chimaera (225 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 158 kg more than 1996 TVR Chimaera.
Because 1996 TVR Chimaera 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 TVR Chimaera. 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, 1996 TVR Chimaera (373 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (180 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Astra | 1996 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Opel | TVR |
| Model | Astra | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3946 cc |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 94.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1183 kg | 1025 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 57 L |
