1981 Ford Escort vs. 1991 Opel Astra
To start off, 1991 Opel Astra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Opel Astra (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Opel Astra weights approximately 141 kg more than 1981 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, 1991 Opel Astra (135 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 1991 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Escort | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2640 mm |
