2008 Opel Astra vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 270 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (321 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1364 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.6 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.3 L/100km | 5.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
