1955 Austin A 30 vs. 1997 Opel Astra
To start off, 1997 Opel Astra is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin A 30. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin A 30 would be higher. At 1,698 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Opel Astra (73 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 30. (28 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 30. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Opel Astra weights approximately 600 kg more than 1955 Austin A 30. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Austin A 30 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 1955 Austin A 30. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Opel Astra (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 30. (54 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1997 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin A 30.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin A 30 | 1997 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 30 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 802 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 28 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 54 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 58 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.2:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3470 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 52 L |
