1985 Ford Escort vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Astra (74 HP) has 25 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 360 kg more than 1985 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, 1996 Opel Astra (128 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Escort | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Escort | Astra |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1117 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
