1998 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Ford Focus is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (131 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 187 kg more than 1997 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 Focus (174 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (103 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 1997 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Focus | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.4:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 70 L |
