1988 Ford Taurus vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,985 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Taurus (220 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (174 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Taurus weights approximately 90 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. 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, 1988 Ford Taurus (271 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Taurus | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Taurus | Astra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2985 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 52 L |
