1987 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 2,301 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Ford Thunderbird (193 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 249 kg more than 1987 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 1987 Ford Thunderbird 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 1987 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Opel Astra (173 Nm) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Thunderbird. (91 Nm). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Thunderbird | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Thunderbird | Astra |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.4 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 52 L |
