1998 Opel Astra vs. 2012 Kia Forte
To start off, 2012 Kia Forte is newer by 14 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Forte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Forte (156 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 39 kg more than 2012 Kia Forte.
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 Kia Forte (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Forte will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 2012 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Opel | Kia |
| Model | Astra | Forte |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1241 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4481 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2649 mm |
