1998 Opel Astra vs. 1999 Ford Focus
To start off, 1999 Ford Focus is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Focus (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ford Focus weights approximately 70 kg more than 1998 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, 1999 Ford Focus (149 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1999 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 1999 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 1999 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Opel | Ford |
| Model | Astra | Focus |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
