2005 Ford Explorer vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Explorer (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Explorer weights approximately 555 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 2005 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Ford Explorer (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra. 2008 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 2005 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2005 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Explorer | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Explorer | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1796 cc |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |
