1996 Ford Mustang vs. 2008 Opel Astra

To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Mustang (143 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Mustang weights approximately 160 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1996 Ford Mustang is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1996 Ford Mustang (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Ford Mustang 2008 Opel Astra
Make Ford Opel
Model Mustang Astra
Year Released 1996 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3797 cc 1363 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 143 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 298 Nm 125 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 96.8 mm 73.4 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86 mm 80.6 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1390 kg 1230 kg
Vehicle Length 4660 mm 3510 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1700 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2620 mm