2006 Opel Astra vs. 1997 Volvo S90
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo S90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S90 would be higher. At 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S90 (177 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (99 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S90 should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S90 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2006 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volvo S90 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 1997 Volvo S90. 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, both vehicles can yield 260 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Astra | 1997 Volvo S90 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | S90 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 4350 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
