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 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Astra (139 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 98 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 515 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 (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 96 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 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1199 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 113 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2620 mm |
