2004 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,932 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 427 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Ford Thunderbird 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 Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Thunderbird (369 Nm) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (170 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Thunderbird | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3932 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 369 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1752 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 52 L |
