1956 Hudson Metropolitan 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 Hudson Metropolitan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Hudson Metropolitan would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1956 Hudson Metropolitan. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1956 Hudson Metropolitan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 455 kg more than 1956 Hudson Metropolitan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Hudson Metropolitan 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 Hudson Metropolitan. 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 (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Hudson Metropolitan. (76 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Hudson Metropolitan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Hudson Metropolitan | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Hudson | Opel |
| Model | Metropolitan | Astra |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 76 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2620 mm |
