2008 Acura RL vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Acura RL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,471 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Acura RL (290 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Acura RL weights approximately 104 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Acura RL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Acura RL will offer significantly more control. 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 Acura RL (347 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (167 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2008 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Acura RL | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Acura | Opel |
| Model | RL | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3471 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 347 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1274 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 53 L |
