1952 Ford Consul vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Ford Consul. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Ford Consul would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (123 HP) has 83 more horse power than 1952 Ford Consul. (40 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1952 Ford Consul. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 265 kg more than 1952 Ford Consul. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1952 Ford Consul 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 Ford Consul. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Astra (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1952 Ford Consul. (100 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1952 Ford Consul. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1952 Ford Consul has manual transmission. 1952 Ford Consul will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Ford Consul | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Consul | Astra |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1508 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 40 HP | 123 HP |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2700 mm |
