1946 Austin 16 vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 63 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1946 Austin 16. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1946 Austin 16 would be higher. At 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1946 Austin 16 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1946 Austin 16. (63 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1946 Austin 16. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 345 kg more than 1946 Austin 16. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1946 Austin 16 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1946 Austin 16. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1946 Austin 16. (146 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1946 Austin 16.
Compare all specifications:
| 1946 Austin 16 | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | 16 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1946 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2200 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 121 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
