1997 Ford Contour vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Contour would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (144 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 10 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. 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, 1997 Ford Contour (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 2003 Opel Astra | |
Make | Ford | Opel |
Model | Contour | Astra |
Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2172 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 144 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 203 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2640 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |