2012 Ford Taurus vs. 1999 Holden Astra
To start off, 2012 Ford Taurus is newer by 13 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1999 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1999 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Taurus weights approximately 671 kg more than 1999 Holden 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, 2012 Ford Taurus (337 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Ford Taurus | 1999 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Taurus | Astra |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 337 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1821 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5154 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1935 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1542 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2868 mm | 2610 mm |
