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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (136 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 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 104 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, 1998 Opel Astra (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (162 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus.
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 | 1999 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 6.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1384 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2620 mm |
