2009 Opel Astra vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 395 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40. 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, 2009 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Opel Astra | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | S40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 68 L |
