2009 Ford Taurus vs. 1999 Holden Astra
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Holden Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Holden 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 66 more horse power than 1999 Holden Astra. (197 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1999 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Holden Astra weights approximately 58 kg more than 2009 Ford Taurus.
Because 2009 Ford Taurus is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Holden 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 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Holden Astra. (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Holden Astra. 2009 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1999 Holden Astra has manual transmission. 1999 Holden 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 | 1999 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Taurus | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6251 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4501 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2610 mm |
