1996 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Holden Astra
To start off, 2004 Holden Astra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Holden Astra (124 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Holden Astra weights approximately 108 kg more than 1996 Ford Escort. 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, 2004 Holden Astra (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2004 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort. 2004 Holden Astra has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Escort 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:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2004 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Escort | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
