2008 Morgan Aero 8 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Morgan Aero 8 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Morgan Aero 8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Morgan Aero 8 (282 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 208 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Morgan Aero 8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Morgan Aero 8 weights approximately 50 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 Morgan Aero 8 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 2008 Morgan Aero 8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Opel 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, 2008 Morgan Aero 8 (430 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (167 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Morgan Aero 8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Morgan Aero 8 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Morgan | Opel |
| Model | Aero 8 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 53 L |
