Opel Astra G 1.6 Ecotec 16V (101 Hp)


Overall Rating

6.8 / 10
Safety 3.0 / 5
Engine 2.5 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 3.5 / 5
Comfort 3.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Opel Astra:

The Opel Astra is a compact car/small family car developed and produced by the German automaker Opel since 1991, currently at its sixth generation. It was first launched in September 1991 as a direct replacement to the Opel Kadett. As of 2025, the car slots between the smaller Corsa supermini and the larger Frontera subcompact crossover SUV.
Initially, the Astra was available in hatchback, saloon, and estate forms. A panel van and a convertible also appeared in the early 1990s. These body styles were later followed by a coupé in 2004, and the sporty Astra OPC appeared in 2005. The Twin Top retractable hardtop convertible replaced the soft top convertible in 2006, while the Caravan was renamed to Astra Sports Tourer since 2009....(Read more on Wikipedia)

G Overview:

Opel Astra (G). With 150 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~10 l/100km). Weighing only 1115 kg, it’s quite light. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 11.5 s). The top speed reaches 188 km/h. A compact car with a rear door that swings upward to provide access to the cargo area. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

Safety Rating
Euro NCAP Year 1998
Adult Occupant 69%
Stars 3
Expert Note:
The Astra G achieved an average 3-star rating for adult occupant protection in its 1998 Euro NCAP test, which was competitive for its era but falls short of modern safety standards.

1.6 Ecotec 16V (101 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

A well-rounded petrol engine providing a good balance of power and everyday usability.

Fuel Economy

Decent fuel economy for its power, making it a popular and practical choice.

Best Use Case: Mixed

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Wide range of engines to suit various needs and budgets
  • • Practical and spacious interior for its class
  • • Generally good reliability and affordable maintenance
  • • Comfortable ride quality for daily commuting
  • • Good value on the used car market

Cons:

  • • Some entry-level engines are significantly underpowered
  • • Interior plastics can feel dated and somewhat cheap
  • • Automatic transmissions often dull performance and economy
  • • Average Euro NCAP safety rating by modern standards
  • • Older models can be prone to rust issues

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(F Classic: March, 1993 - July, 1994).

General:
Brand:Opel
Model:Astra
Generation:G
Modification (Engine):1.6 Ecotec 16V (101 Hp)
Start of production:March, 1998
End of production:June, 2000
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Hatchback
Seats:5
Doors:3-5
Engine:
Power:101 Hp @ 6200 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:63.2 Hp/l [129mm less]
Torque:150 Nm @ 3200 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:X16XEL More details about the engine X16XEL
Engine displacement:1598
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:3.25 l
Coolant:6.3 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:79 mm mm
Piston Stroke:81.5 mm mm
Compression ratio:10.5:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:10 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:5.9 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:7.4 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 2
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:11.5 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:11.5 sec
Maximum speed:188 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:11 kg/Hp, 90.6 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:7.4 kg/Nm, 134.5 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:10.9 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1115
Max. weight:1625
Max. roof load:100 kg
Max load:510
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:1180 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:370 l
Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%):1150 kg
Fuel tank capacity:52 l
Permitted trailer load without brakes:570 kg
Permitted towbar download:75 kg
Size:
Length:4110 mm mm [129mm less]
Width:1709 mm mm [21mm more]
Height:1425 mm mm [15mm more]
Wheelbase:2606 mm mm [89mm more]
Width including mirrors:1989 mm
Front track:1464 mm
Rear (Back) track:1452 mm
Front overhang:791 mm
Rear overhang:713 mm
Ride height (ground clearance):130 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):10.8 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDrum [bad for performance and cooling.]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size185/65 R15 H
Wheel rims size6J x 15 ET49
Front suspensionIndependent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar
Rear suspensionSemi-independent, coil spring

Is the Opel Astra worth every penny? Give us your honest ROI.