1983 Ford Escort vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1983 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 675 kg more than 1983 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, 2011 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Escort | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Escort | Astra |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2620 mm |
