2006 Opel Astra vs. 1996 Volvo S40
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 S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 1,948 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S40 (138 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 62 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40.
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, 1996 Volvo S40 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Astra | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | S40 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1364 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1218 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2560 mm |
