1949 Austin 16 vs. 2008 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2008 Opel Insignia 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 Insignia (177 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1949 Austin 16. (63 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Insignia should accelerate faster than 1949 Austin 16.
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 Insignia, 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 Insignia (230 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Austin 16. (147 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Insignia 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 Insignia | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | 16 | Insignia |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2200 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1856 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2737 mm |
