1949 Fiat 500 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 57 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,364 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1949 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1949 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 620 kg more than 1949 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1949 Fiat 500 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 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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. 2006 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1949 Fiat 500 has manual transmission. 1949 Fiat 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Fiat 500 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 500 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 1364 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3250 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1290 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 52 L |
