2009 Ford Fiesta vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Ford Fiesta is newer by 11 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. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Astra (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2009 Ford Fiesta. (89 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 234 kg more than 2009 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Ford Fiesta (185 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Fiesta | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Fiesta | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2620 mm |
