1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2007 Opel Astra. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2007 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 355 kg more than 2007 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Ford Thunderbird 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 Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Thunderbird | Astra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 52 L |
