1950 Austin A 40 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 58 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1950 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1950 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,596 cc, 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 264 kg more than 1950 Austin A 40.
Because 1950 Austin A 40 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 1950 Austin A 40. 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 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1950 Austin A 40. (84 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1950 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1950 Austin A 40 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 40 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1950 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1596 cc |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 127 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 52 L |
