1998 Ford Falcon vs. 2005 Opel Astra

To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Falcon (235 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Falcon should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Falcon weights approximately 500 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 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 1998 Ford Falcon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1998 Ford Falcon (395 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 253 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra. 1998 Ford Falcon has automatic transmission and 2005 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2005 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Ford Falcon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Ford Falcon 2005 Opel Astra
Make Ford Opel
Model Falcon Astra
Year Released 1998 2005
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4942 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 235 HP 97 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 395 Nm 142 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 3600 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1580 kg 1080 kg
Wheelbase Size 2800 mm 2710 mm