1954 Buick 40 vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Buick 40 would be higher. At 4,328 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1954 Buick 40. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1954 Buick 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Buick 40 weights approximately 250 kg more than 2004 Opel Astra.
Because 1954 Buick 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 Buick 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1954 Buick 40 (325 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1954 Buick 40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Buick 40 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Buick | Opel |
| Model | 40 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4328 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1425 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2640 mm |
