1978 Ford Capri vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Capri would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Ford Capri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Ford Capri (175 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ford Capri should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 128 kg more than 1978 Ford Capri.
Because 1978 Ford Capri 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 1978 Ford Capri. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1978 Ford Capri (263 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Ford Capri will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1978 Ford Capri has manual transmission. 1978 Ford Capri will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ford Capri | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Capri | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 263 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2500 mm |
