1991 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2012 Ford Taurus is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 204 more horse power than 1991 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1991 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Taurus weights approximately 846 kg more than 1991 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, 2012 Ford Taurus (337 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Opel Astra. (104 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Opel Astra. 2012 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1991 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1991 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Opel Astra | 2012 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Opel | Ford |
| Model | Astra | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 337 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1821 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 5154 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1935 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1542 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2868 mm |
