2003 Ford Ka vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Ka would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 418 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka. 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, 2005 Opel Astra (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Ka | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 52 L |
