2008 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Kia Soul
To start off, 2012 Kia Soul is newer by 4 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Soul is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Soul (164 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Soul should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 104 kg more than 2012 Kia Soul.
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, both vehicles can yield 200 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 2012 Kia Soul | |
| Make | Opel | Kia |
| Model | Astra | Soul |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1228 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 48 L |
