1981 Ford Escort vs. 2000 Opel Astra
To start off, 2000 Opel Astra is newer by 19 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 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Opel Astra weights approximately 306 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, 2000 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 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 | 2000 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Escort | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2710 mm |
