2003 Ford Ka vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 5 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (94 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 325 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, 2008 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Ka | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 52 L |
