1999 Ford Escort vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1999 Ford Escort 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Escort (131 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 46 kg more than 1999 Ford Escort.
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 Escort (178 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (167 Nm). This means 1999 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 1999 Ford Escort 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 Escort will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Escort | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Escort | Astra |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1124 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2650 mm |
