1952 Austin A 40 vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 55 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1952 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1952 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Astra weights approximately 395 kg more than 1952 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1952 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 1952 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Opel Astra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1952 Austin A 40. (79 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1952 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Austin A 40 | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 40 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1199 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.2:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 113 km/hour | 186 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2620 mm |
