2008 Ford Ka vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Ford Ka is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 313 kg more than 2008 Ford Ka.
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, 1998 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Ka | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Ka | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 887 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2620 mm |
