1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1985 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1985 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,660 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1985 Vauxhall Astra. (53 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 should accelerate faster than 1985 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Austin-Healey 100 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1985 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Austin-Healey 100 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-Healey 100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Vauxhall 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, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 (144 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Vauxhall Astra. (84 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1955 Austin-Healey 100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 1985 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Vauxhall |
| Model | 100 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2660 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2530 mm |
