1996 Ford Ka vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Ka would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Astra (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Astra weights approximately 490 kg more than 1996 Ford Ka. 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, 2007 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Ka | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 52 L |
