1998 Ford Focus vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 14 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (129 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 510 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. 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, 2012 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Focus | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.6 seconds | 8.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
