2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 366 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 183 kg more than 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500.
Because 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 Shelby GT 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Opel 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 Shelby GT 500 (652 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 464 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (188 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
Make | Ford | Opel |
Model | Shelby GT 500 | Astra |
Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5409 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 500 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 652 Nm | 188 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1077 kg | 1260 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |