2004 Ford Mustang vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Ford Mustang is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mustang (260 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Mustang weights approximately 258 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Ford Mustang 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 Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2004 Ford Mustang (411 Nm) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (165 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Mustang | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Mustang | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 411 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1518 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 52 L |
