2001 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2001 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 3 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 3,933 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 625 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.
Because 2001 Ford Thunderbird 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 Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2001 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2001 Ford Thunderbird 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. 2001 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Ford Thunderbird | 1998 Opel Astra | |
Make | Ford | Opel |
Model | Thunderbird | Astra |
Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3933 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 249 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 388 Nm | 130 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.1 mm | 69.8 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |