1997 Ford Ka vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Ka would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (198 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 545 kg more than 1997 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, 2006 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Ka | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Ka | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 52 L |
