1998 Ford Mustang vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Mustang (143 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 40 kg more than 1998 Ford Mustang.
Because 1998 Ford Mustang 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 Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 Mustang (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Mustang | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Mustang | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
