1991 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 460 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1991 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1991 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Ford Thunderbird | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Thunderbird | Astra |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2620 mm |
