1954 Morris Minor vs. 2009 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra is newer by 55 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Morris Minor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Morris Minor would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saturn Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Astra (136 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1954 Morris Minor. (30 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1954 Morris Minor. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Astra weights approximately 493 kg more than 1954 Morris Minor. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Morris Minor 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 Morris Minor. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Saturn Astra (125 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Morris Minor. (54 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Morris Minor.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Morris Minor | 2009 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Morris | Saturn |
| Model | Minor | Astra |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 803 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 30 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 54 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.2:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 787 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2190 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22 L | 45 L |
