2004 Lincoln Continental vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Lincoln Continental 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 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lincoln Continental (217 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lincoln Continental should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lincoln Continental weights approximately 600 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.
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 Lincoln Continental (372 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Lincoln Continental will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2004 Lincoln Continental has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Lincoln Continental will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Lincoln Continental | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Lincoln | Opel |
| Model | Continental | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4601 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 372 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5300 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2620 mm |
