1986 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (104 HP) has 29 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 420 kg more than 1986 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, 2008 Opel Astra (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2008 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Escort | Astra |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 52 L |
