2009 Ford Explorer vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Opel Astra would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (207 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (82 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 418 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer 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 2009 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (185 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Explorer | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 4.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 972 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 52 L |
