1989 Ford RS 200 vs. 2002 Holden Astra
To start off, 2002 Holden Astra is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford RS 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford RS 200 would be higher. At 1,804 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford RS 200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford RS 200 (247 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2002 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford RS 200 should accelerate faster than 2002 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford RS 200 weights approximately 32 kg more than 2002 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Ford RS 200 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 1989 Ford RS 200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Holden 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, 1989 Ford RS 200 (292 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1989 Ford RS 200 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford RS 200 | 2002 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | RS 200 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1804 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1182 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2610 mm |
