1996 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2004 Vauxhall 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Vauxhall Astra (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 215 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 Vauxhall Astra (255 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2004 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2004 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Vauxhall |
| Model | Escort | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
