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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1952 Austin A 40. (49 HP @ 5000 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 275 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 (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1952 Austin A 40. (83 Nm @ 3000 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 | 1200 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 52 L |
