1998 Ford Contour vs. 2001 Opel Astra
To start off, 2001 Opel Astra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Contour would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2001 Opel Astra. (142 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 231 kg more than 2001 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, 1998 Ford Contour (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Astra. 2001 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2001 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Contour | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 94.6 mm |
| 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 52 L |
