2004 Ford Focus vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 166 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. 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, 2004 Ford Focus (178 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Focus | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2620 mm |
