2009 Opel Astra vs. 2006 Pontiac Torrent
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Pontiac Torrent. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Pontiac Torrent would be higher. At 3,425 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Pontiac Torrent is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (239 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2006 Pontiac Torrent. (185 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2006 Pontiac Torrent. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 46 kg more than 2006 Pontiac Torrent. 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 (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Pontiac Torrent. (286 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Pontiac Torrent. 2006 Pontiac Torrent has automatic transmission and 2009 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2009 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Pontiac Torrent will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Opel Astra | 2006 Pontiac Torrent | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Astra | Torrent |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3425 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 239 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1347 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 61 L |
