2006 Pontiac Solstice vs. 2004 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2006 Pontiac Solstice is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 2,399 cc, 2006 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Pontiac Solstice (177 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2004 Vauxhall Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 2004 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Pontiac Solstice weights approximately 117 kg more than 2004 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Pontiac Solstice 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 2006 Pontiac Solstice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Vauxhall 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 Pontiac Solstice (225 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Vauxhall Astra. (128 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Pontiac Solstice | 2004 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Pontiac | Vauxhall |
| Model | Solstice | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1389 cc |
| Horse Power | 177 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1347 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2620 mm |
