Whatever many car enthusiasts say, the compact car class will live forever. Where such confidence? - you ask a question. We answer: the advantages of such cars are much greater than the disadvantages: minimum consumption, ease of parking, maneuverability, comfort, and you can list indefinitely.
Opel Astra and Ford Focus should be singled out among the clear leaders of this class. But which of the presented car is better to buy, we will try to figure it out now. And we’ll make a reservation right away, we won’t arrange a test drive for representatives of the latest generations, we’ll talk about those whose time test has proven that they deserve to be called the best, in particular, we will talk about Opel Astra H and Ford Focus III.
First of all, let's say that they are related by the country of origin. Despite the fact that Germany is the birthplace of Opel, and Ford is the USA, these models are currently produced from the assembly lines of Russian factories, thus making their purchase more affordable. The similarities end there, so it's time to talk about their individual benefits.
Appearance
Opel Astra is a car with looks that will appeal to both women and men of all ages and orientations. A streamlined roof, a wide base, small overhangs, stylish optics and embossed arches, you must agree, handsome.
The exterior of the Ford Focus is also quite attractive - classic lines in symbiosis with modern design elements will not leave anyone indifferent to this model.
It is rather difficult to say which car is more beautiful at first glance, and we will not pursue this goal, because in any case the result will not be devoid of subjectivity, so decide for yourself which car is more representative.
Speaking of appearance, it would not be superfluous to add that both the first and the second participant in today's comparative test are produced in several body styles, namely: a sedan and a hatchback. Depending on your wishes, you can choose the option that best suits your needs.
Salon
Only high-quality materials were used in the interior of the Ford Focus, the build quality is also at its best, and, depending on the configuration, the manufacturer also offers an impressive set of options, which makes staying in the car comfortable and functional.
The interior of the Opel Astra will satisfy the requirements of even the most demanding customer. The materials used in the decoration will please with their softness and aesthetics, and the door panels, decorated with artificial leather, will add sophistication to the atmosphere. All this is harmoniously complemented by comfortable seats and a rich set of options.
Engine and transmission
The third generation Ford Focus in the dealer network is presented with a motor line consisting of four gasoline and one diesel engines with the following characteristics: 1.6 (85 hp), 1.6 (125 hp), 1.6 ( 105 hp), 2.0 (150 hp) and 2.0 (250 hp). The model is aggregated either with a five-speed mechanics or a six-speed automatic.
Opel Astra is not replete with a choice of engines, only a couple are distinguished: a 1.6-liter 115-horsepower and a 1.8-liter 140-horsepower. As a transmission, both a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic are offered.
Price
And finally, one should touch upon such an important factor when buying a car as its cost.
The price tag on the Ford Focus III sedan flaunts with the amount of 542,000 rubles, on the hatchback - 532,000 rubles.
The price of the Opel Astra sedan starts at 613,900 rubles, the hatchback is slightly cheaper - from 603,000 rubles.
What is better Ford Focus or Opel?
So I took myself a Ford Focus 1.0 EcoBoost for 100 horses, I chose it because I think it's better!
The choice is as follows:Ford Focus is a time-tested car, popular in Europe, America and here, which is most important. Fresh, stylish, the golden mean between style and conservatism.
- Choosing between a large number of representatives of the C-class, I wanted something special, but at the same time not screaming about myself, such as the Honda Civic;
- reliable and conservative, but not Volkswagen Golf, Opel Astra;
- something bright, but not a Peugeot Citroen, somehow they look feminine and drive, there is no drive at all.
Interior view of Ford Focus
In the cabin, excellent ergonomics immediately caught my eye, everything is at hand, concisely and informatively. Feeling of security and composure, sat down, went without hesitation.
It can be seen that the interior was worked out by people who know their business. The quality of plastic for this money is 5-. I like everything in the cabin, but there could be more space in the back.Driving impressions
The Focus rides, as if glued to the road, cornering is excellent, the steering is clear, the steering wheel is filled with heaviness with a set speed, safety is paramount.
The suspension, as it should be for a driver's car, is harsh. Yes, to hell with it. Rides EXCELLENT!Ford heart
An engine with a volume of only 1 liter, but with a turbine, gives exactly 100 hp, the dynamics of 12.5 seconds is certainly not encouraging, but fuel consumption of 6 liters in the city equalizes this drawback.
On the highway, we managed to reach 4 liters per 100 km, though only 2 times, when I drove 90 km / h all the way, otherwise, 4.5-5 liters.
Problems with the Ford Focus that I encountered
The steering rack was changed under warranty once, the stabilizers were changed. The rest is ok. No knocks, no squeaks. Mileage 39,000 km. Satisfied with the car.
At first glance, this is not a problem, but a convenience, but this is until the moment you start trying to find something on. The significantly increased level of comfort Ford Focus compensates for the somewhat unconvincing dynamics of the car.
Good night, I want to buy focus 3, l / c or aster l / c, what do you advise? Especially since…
The turns there are excellent and the roads are normal, and so on until the golden antelope. Depending on the boost level, it develops 85 hp. To call a Ford shit... M... I'm sitting here, I think it's too rude, but it's easy to poop.
The range also includes a range of motors of different power and type, as well as various gearboxes. And what is better to choose, you decide, perhaps some of my comments will be useful to you. On the road, it keeps solidly, without unnecessary twitches and fuss, without keeping the driver in constant tension.
But on long turns I skidded strongly in several places, although I was driving faster on the aster. The back of the car just fell off. On the aster in the afternoon I drove today and not any hints.
My tires are Velcro, the focus is summer. In this mode, I'm sure as I was driving, the tires warmed up on the Ford and therefore the strength was equal in holding.
At high speed, the focus does not feel bad, but it starts to sway a lot.
Opel did not allow this even at higher speeds. The only thing I liked was that the focus is softer, that is, more comfortable on bad roads. If I went to some kind of track, although I'm not a royal driver, the Opel is definitely more interesting to drive and faster. How stupid is the Opel in acceleration from a standstill to the end, but after the focus, the Opel is a rocket.
Ford doesn't go anywhere, it just accelerates and that's it. For the dynamics of the focus is a huge minus. I like both cars. After 7 minutes, the disks began to turn, according to the owner, he had all the rules, he won’t be sure to lie, since the car is working and the repair is just as free.
Compare Opel Astra and Ford Focus with other models
Yes, and Ford slows down not to say that it's bad, but not for long. Straight very quickly ended with the conduct of the disks and pedal wattage. The same rear is cramped, and in front of the passenger's legs there is nowhere to go.
I don't know what Ford was thinking when they made the front passenger seat. Legs rest on the panel! Opel doesn't have that.
In the mirrors in the Ford there is not even a backlight. Well, what a savings. This applies to both sedans and hatchbacks. Real capacity - 1 large suitcase.
Tips for minor repairs Ford Focus A feature of the Ford Focus is the presence of a convenient and quite roomy organizer under the trunk floor. Which, by the way, can be reduced if desired by adding additional space to the main luggage compartment. And besides, in the luggage compartment of the Ford Focus 3 there is a full-fledged spare wheel, and not a stowaway, as in OpelAstra.
The most common Ford Focus 3 engine with a volume of 1.6 liters and hp. The advantage of the engine is real fuel savings with a smooth ride at a constant speed and early transitions to the next gear. The Ford Focus 3 also has an option for a really dynamic ride - a 2-liter strong diesel engine. However, it is installed only with an automatic transmission, and its price is significantly higher than other representatives of the model.
OpelAstra engines cannot boast of high dynamic performance. Basic strong and more powerful on l. The alternative is a strong turbocharged engine, which makes the dynamics feel much better.
But its price is also somewhat higher.
Handling In handling, rivals act as two opposites. Against the confidence of the Ford Focus 3, Opel Astra developers offer sharpness. Ford Focus 3 keeps on cornering confidently, does not heel and practically ignores small bumps in the road surface. But at the same time, there is a feeling of accelerating the reaction of the car to the movements of the driver.
The gambling nature of the Opel Astra is manifested in greater briskness, but in corners it can easily go off track, as it does not differ in the accuracy of a competitor. Comfort The third Ford Focus is certainly far ahead of its predecessors in terms of ride comfort. On the road, it keeps solidly, without unnecessary twitches and fuss, without keeping the driver in constant tension. The model moves smoothly even on Russian roads.
Ford Focus III and Opel Astra
Focus 2 or Focus 3 The suspension is resilient and elastic at the same time, it does not allow breakdown of shock absorbers even on serious bumps. An important achievement in the field of comfort should also be considered an increase in the level of sound insulation. Now the whine of tires that Ford Focus 2 owners have complained about in the past, there is also no impression that the engine is running right in the cabin.
But the insulation of the bottom and wheel arches is quite decent. Prior to leaving the market, the model was offered to Russian buyers with four body types: Wear-resistant seat material, leatherette on request.
Interior: Opel Astra or Ford Focus 3
Color, in a basic complete set, grey. The dashboard with chrome-plated digital instrument surrounds looks stylish and rich.
Thanks to the soft backlight, all indicators are perfectly visible. The on-board computer screen is located between the tachometer and speedometer. And in the top versions, in the upper part of the center console there is a large display of the multimedia system and navigation. The rear seats of the Astra are more spacious than those of the Focus. In Ford Focus 3, the quality and at the same time the practicality of materials attract attention.
In the first version of this article, I pointed out as one of the disadvantages of the Opel Astra - the lack of an official dealership in the Russian Federation. But in a few days everything changed: Ford Motor Co officially leaves Russia, which equalizes the three-door Astra and Focus. Does it make sense to buy cars of brands that have left our market? And which model is better? We understand in the article.
In appearance, the "German" immediately goes on the offensive. Its sharp edges and thousands of lines are an order of magnitude more interesting than the exterior of the calm Focus. Add to that a sloping roofline and a neat rear end, and you can see why the H GTC is even now eye-catching and does not look old-fashioned.
Ford Focus 3dr, promoted as a youth hatchback, looks much more conservative. It is distinguished from its five-door counterpart by a flatter rear window and longer doors. True, due to the shape of the roof, he gives the Astra a painful blow in the stomach. If only two (preferably not very tall) fit in the back of the Gran Turismo Compact, then the Focus is quite a five-seater car.
Engine range and gearbox
If the fight had taken place in Europe, where the Opel Astra H GTC was offered with more than 10 engines, the outcome of the round would have been sealed. But in Russia, the "German" is available with engines of 1.6 and 1.8 liters in 115 and 140 hp. With. and a pair of turbocharged exclusives for 200 and 240 “horses”. Of the gearboxes - five- and six-speed "mechanics", a four-band "automatic" and a five-speed "robot" EasyTronic.
"Ford" is offered with four gasoline aspirated 1.4; 1.6; 1.8 and 2.0 liters (80-145 hp), as well as a 1.8 turbodiesel with a fuel consumption of about seven liters in the city. The real combo is the ST and RS versions, which developed 225 and 305 horsepower, respectively.
So, Opel Astra, which actively started the battle, blocked the opponent in terms of engine range.
Of the gearboxes, the Focus has 5- and 6-speed manuals comparable to the Opel, a 4-band automatic and a PowerShift robot with two clutches. It's funny, but neither one nor the other manufacturer was able to bring the manual transmission to mind - both boxes kick, kick and do not like dynamic acceleration.
Packages and options
The third round of confrontation "Astra", having missed a lot of sensitive blows for a meager engine and transmission range, begins with a carefully adjusted series. The first basic Essentia is available with air conditioning, fog lights, heating, stereo, alarm and a full range of security systems.
The second complete set of Enjoy includes climate and cruise control, four airbags, a multifunction steering wheel and full power accessories. Third series of Cosmo shocks: R16 alloy wheels (R17 and R18 on request), headlights with spherical lenses, piano lacquer trim, a combined leather + fabric interior and a pair of finishing touches - AFL adaptive xenon lighting, panoramic roof and navigation system .
"Focus" in this round is having a hard time. He responds to the opponent's bold blows with blocks. The Ambient package has only ABS, an airbag and audio preparation, while the Comfort package has air conditioning, an on-board computer, aluminum inserts in the interior and a stereo system. The most durable blocking techniques are called Ghia and Titanium with power accessories, alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control.
maintainability
Once upon a time, Adam Opel AG launched a recycling program and an accompanying advertising campaign. The viewer was shown old and crumpled cars, then a brand new Kadett and the confident voice of the announcer said: “Your car can become an Opel!” True, in Russia the slogan was translated with an error (“Any car becomes an Opel!”) And morally equated a German car with junk.
In this round, the Astra immediately gets hit hard by the Focus for the 1.6 and 1.8 liter Ecotec engines. Due to the wear of the plastic elements, the motor begins to work unstably. The "sore" is eliminated by installing a cheap plastic clamp.
Often at the Astra, the throttle valve heating pipes burst (warranty case), the heat exchangers actively “run”, the camshaft gears break up to the wedge, the EGR valve clogs, the crankcase gas membrane cracks (eliminated by replacing the valve cover). And the power steering is also junk, the seat heating is moping, the alarm system often fails and the antifreeze tank bursts.
"Focus" is head and shoulders above "Astra" in terms of reliability. Yes, its engines have a breakdown of the IMRC valve, the fine fuel filter clogs and the fuel pump often burns out, but this is almost nothing before the problems of the Astra checkpoint. Here the synchronizers break, the input shaft oil seals run, for 40-60 thousand km the EasyTronic "robot" clutch burns.
Timid and completely painless blows of the "German" on the body of a competitor - at the Ford gearbox of the IB5 series, the pin of the satellites breaks down to the destruction of the box, and the steering rack is completely junk.
All Ford Focus 3dr problems are well known and are "treated" in most services. According to Opel, there are very few competent craftsmen. Yes, and those that are, say: "Every day we learn something new, because even something that we did not suspect breaks down."
Cost and problems on the "secondary"
In the secondary market for Astra H GTC they ask from 170 to 500 thousand rubles. The most affordable cars have already exchanged a third hundred thousand kilometers and two or three owners (and others - and TCP). A car in normal technical condition will cost 280-350 thousand rubles.
For 330 thousand rubles, we found a model made in 2008, with a 1.6 engine for 115 liters. with., automatic transmission and mileage of 171 thousand km:
We check the history through the service and see that in almost 11 years the car has changed six owners and once the Opel had an accident. Now it is sold with a duplicate TCP. Perhaps because there was no space left in the original document for making entries.
The three-door Ford Focus II is cheaper than its competitor. The minimum cost per car is 120 thousand rubles, the maximum is almost 600. Hatchback 2007. with a motor of 1.8 and 125 liters. With. and a mileage of 150 thousand km is given for 210 thousand rubles:
The ad states that the Ford was owned by the same owner. An Autocode report showed that six people owned the car, with the latter using it for only four months:
The car got into an accident, has a duplicate TCP and traffic police restrictions. Such an Opel cannot be re-registered for itself until restrictions are lifted from it.
So, in this round, with a slight advantage, "Opel" bypassed "Focus".
Which car to choose
The advantages of the Astra are its stylish appearance (almost a coupe, after all), affordable spare parts and rich equipment, the disadvantages are quality, quality and once again quality.
The key advantages of the Ford are its “popularity”, maintainability (hello, taxi drivers!) and a variety of trim levels. There is only one drawback: this is a car, like everyone else: it usually looks, usually rides and is usually sold.
We presented all the pros and cons of the models and their final assessment in a comparative table:
And which of these two hatchbacks do you like? Share your opinion in the comments below the article.
Hello everyone .. I read it here and I want to cry .. half of what is written here is written by people who probably didn’t sit in focus, much less drive ... I’ll say right away that I know enough about this model and I’ll say that it's worth it .... I have nothing against asters, a good car, but it costs more and is more expensive to maintain.
1) Design .. It's clear that this parameter is not for everyone, but still not only aster j seems more feminine to me =)) and ff3 is probably rougher ... but oh well, the taste and color ... the interior is the same ...
2) Engines ... 1.6 turbo 180 forces in dynamics, in my opinion, does not pull exactly 180 ... 160-170 maximum ... it was correctly written earlier that the turbine has both pluses and minuses ... how does it behave this question will show ... the cost of servicing the turbine is higher than the atmosphere and this is a significant minus ... + in fuel consumption .. comparable to Ford's atmosphere ...
150 forces of the atmosphere, taking into account euro5, rides almost the same, compare the dynamics to a hundred ... it differs in my opinion by 0.4 seconds from the turbo astra ... and now the question is - 0.4 seconds is the result of a turbine and 30 horses ??? of course this is strong .... overpayment for the turbine ... in general, you understand what I mean ... (I compare the movements on automatic machines)
Fuel consumption - aster 180 horses in the city 10.3 l, ff3 in the city 9.1 .... where is the savings ????? what do you pay for and what do you believe? Let me remind you that Opel and Ford do not underestimate consumption data like the Japanese ...
3) Ford's "DSG" box is called PowerShift, how strangely it was developed by the Germans, and DSG by the Americans ... the boxes are good, they switch quickly + saves fuel (the consumption is the same as on the mechanics) ... the minus of the DSG is that they put these boxes on sufficiently powerful engines with a "dry clutch" system .. this is a mistake due to which the gearbox resource is reduced, and repairs are expensive .. Ford does it differently. on powerful engines (for example, on a Mondeo 2.0 turbo), PowerShift is installed with a "wet" clutch system .. for ordinary atmospheres where the torque is lower, PowerShift with a "dry" clutch is placed ...
4) Suspension .. having driven both on one and the other car, I liked it more ..... it's hard to say what .... probably here I liked both of them equally ... before, the suspension on the aster was softer than on the focus .. now it's the same ... due to which it's hard to say, because ff3 had no cardinal changes, except for the fact that the front suspension was lightened by 7.5 kg ... probably this affected the unsprung mass and, accordingly, the stiffness of the suspension .... but I’m more inclined to ff3 here, probably only because the rear is independent, and the aster has a beam with a couple of levers ... whatever you say, under load, the independent behaves better, if the car is without ESP, then all the more ... if with ESP, then the difference it's hard to feel, if not to scorch ....
5) But ff3 is also not perfect like any car .. everyone has disadvantages ... the same active assistance system for parallel parking ... for Russia this is nonsense ... in Europe it can and will be useful, but the self-rotating steering wheel in c class is cool))
6) will ff3 be more than asters on the roads? of course =) this is the best-selling car from the class over the past few years ... now people buy cars and compare value for money ... and here ff has always been famous for the fact that prices are not inflated .. + most people buy cars based on reviews, Fortunately, there are more good reviews than bad reviews about ff ....I don’t know why most astrovods don’t like ff so much .... ff and astra are those 2 cars that are worth buying if you focus on the middle class ... so be friends with each other))
