1956 Ford Consul vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Ford Consul. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Ford Consul would be higher. At 1,703 cc (4 cylinders), 1956 Ford Consul is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 21 kg more than 1956 Ford Consul.
Because 1956 Ford Consul 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 1956 Ford Consul. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Ford Consul. (124 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Ford Consul.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Ford Consul | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Consul | Astra |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1703 cc | 1598 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.8:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 128 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1089 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 52 L |
