2009 Ford Taurus X vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus X is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Taurus X is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus X (259 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus X should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 184 kg more than 2009 Ford Taurus X.
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 Taurus X (249 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2009 Ford Taurus X has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Taurus X will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Taurus X | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Taurus X | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 259 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2620 mm |
