Can the Opel Insignia compare to the Ford Mondeo?

I was considering a new Mondeo, but Ford is only putting the 163hp 2.0 diesel in the Titanium Spec at about €34k, where as an Opel Insignia has a 160hp 2.0 diesel available at about €30k. However, I have heard the 130hp Insignia is more drivable.

Any comment?

Michael Morrissey (Kilkenny)

Nov 2010 Filed under: choosing new car

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Expert answer

Hi Michael,

Is there a specific reason you want the highest engine power in either car? In the case of both the Mondeo (140hp) and Insignia (130hp), high specification models of these can be had in and around the €30,000 mark. Granted the highest power output models in these are very potent, but the torque figure is equally important in diesel cars and the middle range Insignia has 300Nm of torque and the Mondeo has 340Nm, which is pretty much on par with that offered by the 160hp Insignia.

If I was to advise, I would say you should look at the Zetec Mondeo 140hp Diesel, which has performance to match the 160hp Insignia and in Zetec trim is pretty well equipped too. You can see the spec here.

I hope this helps,

Complete Car Adviser