2005 Opel Astra vs. 2003 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 TVR Chimaera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 TVR Chimaera would be higher. At 4,546 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 TVR Chimaera (282 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (98 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 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 250 kg more than 2003 TVR Chimaera.
Because 2003 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 2003 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, 2003 TVR Chimaera (306 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2003 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 | 2003 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Opel | TVR |
| Model | Astra | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 4546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 82 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 57 L |
