1954 Austin A 40 vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1954 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1954 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 235 kg more than 1954 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 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 1954 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Austin A 40. (79 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Austin A 40 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 40 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 170 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 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 52 L |
