2009 Ford Explorer vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Opel Astra would be higher. At 4,007 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (125 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 359 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2004 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2004 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Explorer | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4007 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.1 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 52 L |
