2008 Opel Astra vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 12 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 160 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra.
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 Opel Astra (176 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Astra | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 89 HP |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 77.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.2 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
