2004 Ford Ka vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Ka would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (238 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 2004 Ford Ka. (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 257 kg more than 2004 Ford Ka. 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, 2006 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Ka | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Ka | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.1 seconds | 6.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.9 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 52 L |
