1951 Austin A 40 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 57 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,909 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 425 kg more than 1951 Austin A 40.
Because 1951 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 1951 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 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Austin A 40. (80 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Austin A 40 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 40 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1951 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1909 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 52 L |
