2009 Ford Taurus vs. 1997 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1997 Opel Astra. (73 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Opel Astra weights approximately 173 kg more than 2009 Ford Taurus.
Because 2009 Ford Taurus is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus 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 Taurus (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Astra. 2009 Ford Taurus 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 Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Taurus | 1997 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Taurus | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6251 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4501 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 52 L |
