1998 Ford Contour vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 9 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Astra (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Astra weights approximately 183 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour. 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, 2007 Opel Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Contour | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
