2001 Ford Econovan vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Econovan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Econovan would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Ford Econovan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (99 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2001 Ford Econovan. (96 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Econovan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Econovan weights approximately 10 kg more than 2006 Opel Astra.
Because 2001 Ford Econovan 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 2001 Ford Econovan. 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, 2006 Opel Astra (260 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Econovan. (155 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Econovan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Econovan | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Econovan | Astra |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Van | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2710 mm |
