1953 Austin A 70 vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 55 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Austin A 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Austin A 70 would be higher. At 2,199 cc (4 cylinders), 1953 Austin A 70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Astra (140 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1953 Austin A 70. (66 HP @ 3700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1953 Austin A 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Astra weights approximately 5 kg more than 1953 Austin A 70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1953 Austin A 70 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 1953 Austin A 70. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Saturn 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 Saturn Astra (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1953 Austin A 70. (157 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1953 Austin A 70.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Austin A 70 | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Austin | Saturn |
| Model | A 70 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1953 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2199 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3700 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 46 L |
