2006 Opel Astra vs. 2011 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2011 Ford Taurus is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 2006 Opel Astra. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Taurus weights approximately 306 kg more than 2006 Opel Astra. 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, 2011 Ford Taurus (337 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Astra. (151 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Astra. 2011 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 2006 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2006 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Astra | 2011 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Opel | Ford |
| Model | Astra | Taurus |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 337 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1821 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5154 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1935 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1542 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2868 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 72 L |
