2005 Opel Astra vs. 1996 Volvo V90
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V90 would be higher. At 2,978 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo V90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo V90 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (120 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo V90 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo V90 weights approximately 395 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Volvo V90 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 Volvo V90. 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 Volvo V90 (261 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo V90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra. 1996 Volvo V90 has automatic transmission and 2005 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2005 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Volvo V90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Astra | 1996 Volvo V90 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | V90 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2978 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 261 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.2 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4880 mm |
