1988 Ford Sierra vs. 1979 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1988 Ford Sierra is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 74 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Sierra weights approximately 155 kg more than 1979 Vauxhall Astra.
Because 1988 Ford Sierra 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 1988 Ford Sierra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Vauxhall 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, 1988 Ford Sierra (122 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Vauxhall Astra. (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Sierra | 1979 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Vauxhall |
| Model | Sierra | Astra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
