2003 Ford Focus vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Ford Focus is newer by 5 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Astra (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2003 Ford Focus. (73 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 10 kg more than 2003 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Focus. (125 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Focus | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Focus | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1387 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
