2007 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Hyundai Sonata (234 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 296 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. 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, 2007 Hyundai Sonata (306 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2007 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2007 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Hyundai Sonata | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Hyundai | Opel |
| Model | Sonata | Astra |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 234 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
