1981 Ford Granada vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Granada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Granada would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Granada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (174 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1981 Ford Granada. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Granada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 85 kg more than 1981 Ford Granada. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ford Granada 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 Granada. 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, 2003 Opel Astra (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Granada. (216 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Granada.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Granada | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Granada | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2740 mm |
