1955 Morris Minor vs. 2009 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Morris Minor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Morris Minor would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saturn Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1955 Morris Minor. (35 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1955 Morris Minor. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Astra weights approximately 973 kg more than 1955 Morris Minor. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 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 1955 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 (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Morris Minor. (66 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Morris Minor.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Morris Minor | 2009 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Morris | Saturn |
| Model | Minor | Astra |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 947 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 35 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 66 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 762 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2190 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22 L | 45 L |
