2009 Ford Ka vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Ford Ka 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Astra (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2009 Ford Ka. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Ka.
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, 1998 Opel Astra (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Ka | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Ka | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2620 mm |
