2008 Ford Explorer vs. 1989 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1989 Vauxhall Astra. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1989 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1127 kg more than 1989 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Ford Explorer 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 2008 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Vauxhall 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, 2008 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Vauxhall Astra. (103 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Vauxhall Astra. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1989 Vauxhall Astra has manual transmission. 1989 Vauxhall Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 1989 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Vauxhall |
| Model | Explorer | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2077 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2530 mm |
