2004 Ford Taurus vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Taurus (153 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (64 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra.
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 Taurus (251 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Taurus | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Taurus | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 1199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 44 L |
