2008 Buick Lucerne vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Buick Lucerne 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Buick Lucerne is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Buick Lucerne (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Buick Lucerne should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Buick Lucerne weights approximately 337 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.
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, 2008 Buick Lucerne (309 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Buick Lucerne will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2008 Buick Lucerne 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 Buick Lucerne will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Buick Lucerne | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Buick | Opel |
| Model | Lucerne | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 309 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1617 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2620 mm |
