2006 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1997 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (73 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1997 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Alfa Romeo 156 (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1997 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 156 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.8 seconds | 14.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
