2006 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Kia Soul
To start off, 2012 Kia Soul is newer by 6 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Soul is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2012 Kia Soul. (164 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Soul. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 157 kg more than 2012 Kia Soul. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Opel Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Soul. (200 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Soul.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Astra | 2012 Kia Soul | |
| Make | Opel | Kia |
| Model | Astra | Soul |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1228 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 48 L |
