2005 Ford Taurus vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2005 Ford Taurus. (153 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 87 kg more than 2005 Ford Taurus. 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, 2005 Ford Taurus (266 Nm) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (250 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Taurus | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Taurus | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 266 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 52 L |
