Is the newer diesel Astra quicker than the old petrol one?

Hi guys,

I am thinking of changing my 2002 petrol Opel Astra 1.4 for a 2008 diesel 1.3 Astra. What is the difference in engine power, overtaking etc?

Thanks

Patrick Meskill (Clonmel)

Nov 2010 Filed under: choosing used car

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Expert answer

Hi Patrick,

I believe that the 1.3-litre turbodiesel Astra has about the same maximum power as your 1.4-litre petrol model, but it has signficantly more torque so it would be faster overall. Also, being six years younger won't hurt it.

The biggest difference between the two will be the manner in which the power is delivered. Petrol engines without turbocharging produce all their power when being revved, while the turbodiesel engine is better in the mid-range.

As with all car purchases, we recommend you drive the car you're considering for as long as possible on a variety of roads to make sure it suits you.

Let us know if you need anything else and tell us how you get on.

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Adviser
@Shane_O_D