2008 Ford Taurus X vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus X 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Taurus X is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus X (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus X should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 83 kg more than 2008 Ford Taurus X.
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 Taurus X (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2008 Ford Taurus X has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Taurus X will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Taurus X | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Taurus X | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2620 mm |
