1997 Ford Explorer vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Explorer (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Explorer weights approximately 730 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1997 Ford Explorer (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (167 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Explorer | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Explorer | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
