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 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Astra (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 32 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 422 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 (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 95 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. 2007 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Ka | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1330 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 |
