1949 Austin 16 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 59 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Austin 16. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Austin 16 would be higher. At 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1949 Austin 16 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1949 Austin 16. (63 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1949 Austin 16. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 235 kg more than 1949 Austin 16. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1949 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 1949 Austin 16. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Austin 16. (147 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 Austin 16.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Austin 16 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | 16 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2200 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 121 km/hour | 186 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
