1997 Ford Falcon vs. 2005 Holden Astra
To start off, 2005 Holden Astra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 5,766 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Falcon (301 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 2005 Holden Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Falcon should accelerate faster than 2005 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Falcon weights approximately 396 kg more than 2005 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Ford Falcon 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 1997 Ford Falcon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Holden 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, 1997 Ford Falcon (515 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 342 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Holden Astra. (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Falcon | 2005 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Falcon | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5766 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 515 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1674 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2620 mm |
