1980 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (125 HP) has 76 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 465 kg more than 1980 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Opel Astra (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Escort | Astra |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1116 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 125 HP |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 142 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 52 L |
