2002 Ford Ka vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2002 Ford Ka 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Ka (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 154 kg more than 2002 Ford Ka.
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, 1998 Opel Astra (188 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Ka. (175 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Ka | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Ka | Astra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 44 L |
