Especificaciones y análisis del Opel Astra
Power
101HP
Torque
150Nm
Consumption
7.9l/100
Emissions
-g/km
0-100 km/h
13.5s
Top Speed
173km/h
Weight
1259kg
Price
17,050€
Technical summary
Gasolina
Automático 4v
FWD
5 / 5 doors
480 L
52 L
74 kW
Current
Technical specifications
Engine
Capacities
Detailed analysis of the Opel Astra Caravan Comfort 1.6 16v Aut. · 101 CV (2000-2002)
General description
The 1998 Opel Astra Caravan Comfort 1.6 16v Aut. is a vehicle that, despite its age, still evokes a sense of practicality and reliability. With its station wagon body, it presented itself as an ideal option for those seeking space and comfort for daily use or family getaways. Its 1.6-liter, 101 hp gasoline engine, combined with a 4-speed automatic transmission, promised a smooth and uncomplicated drive, albeit with moderate fuel consumption for its time. It was a car designed for real life, for taking children to school, doing groceries, or embarking on a trip with all the necessary luggage.
Driving experience
Behind the wheel of the Astra Caravan, the predominant feeling is one of relaxed and predictable driving. The 101 hp engine, while not offering sporty performance, fulfills its purpose of moving the vehicle with ease in most situations. The 4-speed automatic transmission, though not the fastest or most efficient by today's standards, provides smooth transitions that contribute to a comfortable journey. On the road, the car feels stable, and the suspension, while not excessively soft, absorbs road irregularities well. In the city, its size might require a bit more attention when parking, but the power steering makes maneuvering easier. It's not a car that encourages speed, but rather one that invites you to enjoy the journey calmly.
Design and aesthetics
The design of the 1998 Opel Astra Caravan is a reflection of late 90s automotive aesthetics: functional, sober, and without grand pretensions. Its station wagon body, or 'Caravan' as Opel called it, prioritizes space and cargo capacity, with lines designed to maximize interior volume. The front features characteristic Opel traits of the era, with elongated headlights and a discreet grille. The rear, with its wide tailgate, facilitates access to the trunk, which is one of this model's strong points. Inside, the layout of elements is logical and ergonomic, with materials that, while not luxurious, feel durable and well-assembled. It's a design that, while not aiming for spectacularity, more than fulfills its practical purpose.
Technology and features
In the 1998 Opel Astra Caravan, technology focused on functionality and reliability. Under the hood, we find a 1.6-liter, 16-valve gasoline engine with indirect injection, offering 101 hp. This engine, built with an iron block and an aluminum cylinder head, was known for its robustness. The 4-speed automatic transmission, though basic by current standards, represented significant convenience for its time. In terms of safety, it featured ventilated disc brakes at the front and drums at the rear, a common configuration in vehicles of its segment. The suspension, McPherson type on the front axle and trailing arm with torsional element on the rear, sought a balance between comfort and stability. Don't expect large touchscreens or advanced driving aids, but rather proven and effective technology for its era.
Competition
At the time, the Opel Astra Caravan Comfort 1.6 16v Aut. faced solid competition in the compact station wagon segment. Its main rivals included models such as the Volkswagen Golf Variant, the Ford Focus Wagon, the Renault Mégane Grandtour, or the Peugeot 306 Break. Each of them offered their own virtues, whether in terms of design, equipment, or driving dynamics. The Astra Caravan positioned itself as a balanced option, standing out for its interior space, mechanical reliability, and competitive value for money. Its automatic engine differentiated it from some manual versions of its competitors, offering a more comfortable alternative for urban and road driving.
Conclusion
The 1998 Opel Astra Caravan Comfort 1.6 16v Aut. is a testament to an era when cars were designed with a clear focus on practicality and durability. It is not a vehicle that seeks to thrill with breathtaking performance or avant-garde design, but rather focuses on fulfilling its function as family transport efficiently and reliably. Its large trunk, its 101 hp gasoline engine, and its automatic transmission make it a sensible option for those who value comfort and space. Although years have passed and technology has advanced, this Astra Caravan remains a loyal companion for those who appreciate simplicity and robustness in an automobile. It is a car that, with proper maintenance, can continue to offer valuable service, recalling an era where functionality was king.