2004 Ford Econovan vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Econovan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Econovan would be higher. At 1,789 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Econovan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (100 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2004 Ford Econovan. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Econovan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 97 kg more than 2004 Ford Econovan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Ford Econovan 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 2004 Ford Econovan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Econovan. (138 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Econovan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Econovan | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Econovan | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Van | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1789 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2710 mm |
