1981 Ford Falcon vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,273 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1981 Ford Falcon. (109 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Falcon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 15 kg more than 1981 Ford Falcon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ford Falcon 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 1981 Ford Falcon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Falcon. (228 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Falcon.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Falcon | 2011 Opel Astra | |
Make | Ford | Opel |
Model | Falcon | Astra |
Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3273 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 228 Nm | 262 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1385 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2620 mm |