1981 Ford Taunus 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 Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Opel Astra (145 HP) has 88 more horse power than 1981 Ford Taunus. (57 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Opel Astra weights approximately 308 kg more than 1981 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ford Taunus 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 Taunus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Opel Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Taunus. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2000 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Taunus. 2000 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Taunus has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Taunus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Taunus | 2000 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Taunus | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 145 HP |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1328 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2640 mm |
