1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 2002 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2002 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 47 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, 2002 Vauxhall Astra (124 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 260 kg more than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. 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, 2002 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, 2002 Vauxhall Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (144 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin-Healey 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 2002 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Vauxhall |
| Model | 100 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2660 cc | 1796 cc |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2610 mm |
