2008 Saturn Astra vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Saturn Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Astra (140 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 45 kg more than 2008 Saturn Astra.
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 Opel Astra (201 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Astra. (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Astra. 2006 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 2008 Saturn Astra has manual transmission. 2008 Saturn Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Saturn Astra | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Saturn | Opel |
| Model | Astra | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 4.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 52 L |
