1998 Ford Focus vs. 2003 Holden Astra

To start off, 2003 Holden Astra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (129 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2003 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2003 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Holden Astra weights approximately 35 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus.

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 (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Holden Astra.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Ford Focus 2003 Holden Astra
Make Ford Holden
Model Focus Astra
Year Released 1998 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1388 cc 1796 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 129 HP 120 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 183 Nm 165 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3600 RPM
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1115 kg 1150 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4260 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2610 mm