2006 Opel Astra vs. 2008 Pontiac G8
To start off, 2008 Pontiac G8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Opel Astra would be higher. At 5,967 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac G8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac G8 (362 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac G8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 33 kg more than 2008 Pontiac G8.
Because 2008 Pontiac G8 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 2008 Pontiac G8. 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, 2008 Pontiac G8 (530 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac G8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Astra | 2008 Pontiac G8 | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Astra | G8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 5967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1385 kg | 1352 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.3 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 64 L |
