2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 4 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 4,947 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (212 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 730 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 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (390 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Explorer | Astra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4947 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2010 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |
