2005 Opel Astra vs. 2006 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2006 Pontiac Solstice is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,376 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Pontiac Solstice (177 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra.
Because 2006 Pontiac Solstice 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 2006 Pontiac Solstice. 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, 2006 Pontiac Solstice (225 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Astra | 2006 Pontiac Solstice | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Astra | Solstice |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2376 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 49 L |
