2004 Ford Ka vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 8 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2004 Ford Ka. (94 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 125 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, 2012 Opel Astra (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Ka | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.1 seconds | 12.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 52 L |
