2006 Chevrolet SSR vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet SSR is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Astra would be higher. At 5,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet SSR (401 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 319 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 307 kg more than 2006 Chevrolet SSR.
Because 2006 Chevrolet SSR 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 Chevrolet SSR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Chevrolet SSR (542 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 357 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (185 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 2006 Chevrolet SSR has manual transmission. 2006 Chevrolet SSR will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet SSR | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | SSR | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5965 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 401 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 542 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.9:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1078 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 52 L |
