2005 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 7 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, 2012 Opel Astra (239 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2005 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Explorer weights approximately 557 kg more than 2012 Opel Astra.
Because 2005 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 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, 2012 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Explorer | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Explorer | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |
