1999 Ford Contour vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Ford Contour would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Contour (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ford Contour weights approximately 7 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Contour | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Contour | Astra |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 52 L |
