2003 Opel Astra vs. 1986 Ford Fairlane
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,089 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (174 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1986 Ford Fairlane. (137 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 222 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra.
Because 1986 Ford Fairlane 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 1986 Ford Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1986 Ford Fairlane (304 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra. 1986 Ford Fairlane has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Ford Fairlane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1986 Ford Fairlane | |
| Make | Opel | Ford |
| Model | Astra | Fairlane |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 4089 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1632 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2950 mm |
