2006 Ford Ranger vs. 2003 Holden Astra
To start off, 2006 Ford Ranger is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Holden Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Holden Astra would be higher. At 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Holden Astra (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2006 Ford Ranger. (86 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Ranger weights approximately 1710 kg more than 2003 Holden Astra.
Because 2006 Ford Ranger 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 2006 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Holden 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, 2006 Ford Ranger (174 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Holden Astra. 2003 Holden Astra has automatic transmission and 2006 Ford Ranger has manual transmission. 2006 Ford Ranger will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Holden Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Ranger | 2003 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Ranger | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2862 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2120 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2610 mm |
