2008 Opel Astra vs. 1997 Acura RL
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Acura RL weights approximately 565 kg more than 2008 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, 1997 Acura RL (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra. 1997 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 2008 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2008 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 1997 Acura RL | |
| Make | Opel | Acura |
| Model | Astra | RL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 50 L |
