2011 Volvo S40 vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo S40 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2012 Opel Astra. (197 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2012 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo S40 weights approximately 194 kg more than 2012 Opel Astra. 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, 2011 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Opel Astra. 2011 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 2012 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2012 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Volvo S40 | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Volvo | Opel |
| Model | S40 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1579 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4475 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1453 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 52 L |
