2003 Ford Thunderbird 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 Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (198 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 25 kg more than 2003 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 2003 Ford Thunderbird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra. 2003 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2005 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2005 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Thunderbird | 2005 Opel Astra | |
Make | Ford | Opel |
Model | Thunderbird | Astra |
Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3934 cc | 1979 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 249 HP | 198 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 388 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1770 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 52 L |