1990 Ford Falcon vs. 2004 Holden Astra
To start off, 2004 Holden Astra is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,157 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Holden Astra (124 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1990 Ford Falcon. (120 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Falcon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Ford Falcon weights approximately 142 kg more than 2004 Holden Astra.
Because 1990 Ford Falcon 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 1990 Ford Falcon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1990 Ford Falcon (235 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Holden Astra. (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1990 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Holden Astra. 2004 Holden Astra has automatic transmission and 1990 Ford Falcon has manual transmission. 1990 Ford Falcon will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Holden Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Ford Falcon | 2004 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Falcon | Astra |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3157 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2620 mm |
