2006 Opel Astra vs. 1996 Volvo 960
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 2,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 960 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (198 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 960. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 960 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2006 Opel Astra.
Because 1996 Volvo 960 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 960. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 960. (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 960.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Astra | 1996 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | 960 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2780 mm |
