2008 Opel Astra vs. 2004 Volvo V50
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo V50 (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (100 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo V50 weights approximately 37 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.
Because 2004 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V50 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, 2004 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 2004 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | V50 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 58 L |
