2004 Opel Astra vs. 1997 Ford Falcon
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,984 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Falcon (205 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Falcon should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Falcon weights approximately 149 kg more than 2004 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Ford Falcon 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 1997 Ford Falcon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1997 Ford Falcon (357 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra. 1997 Ford Falcon has automatic transmission and 2004 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2004 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Ford Falcon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Opel Astra | 1997 Ford Falcon | |
| Make | Opel | Ford |
| Model | Astra | Falcon |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 3984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 357 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2800 mm |
