2009 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (296 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 130 kg more than 1997 Opel Astra. 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 Focus (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra. 2009 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 1997 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1997 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1997 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Focus | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
