1981 Ford Mustang vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Mustang (173 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Mustang weights approximately 95 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ford Mustang 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 Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1981 Ford Mustang (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (188 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Mustang | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Mustang | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2620 mm |
