1972 Ford Gran Torino vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Gran Torino would be higher. At 4,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (95 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Gran Torino weights approximately 468 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra.
Because 1972 Ford Gran Torino is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1972 Ford Gran Torino. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2005 Opel Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (245 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Ford Gran Torino.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford Gran Torino | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Gran Torino | Astra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4097 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1858 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5470 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 52 L |
