2008 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (171 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (73 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 3 kg more than 1997 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, 2008 Ford Focus (196 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 1997 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Focus | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 14.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1283 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
