2008 Opel Astra vs. 2009 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,454 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 1186 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra.
Because 2009 Toyota Highlander 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, 2009 Toyota Highlander 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, 2009 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra. 2009 Toyota Highlander 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. 2009 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 2009 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Opel | Toyota |
| Model | Astra | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1909 cc | 3454 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 270 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 2581 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 73 L |
