1956 Morgan Plus 4 vs. 1997 Opel Astra
To start off, 1997 Opel Astra is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Morgan Plus 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Morgan Plus 4 would be higher. At 2,087 cc (4 cylinders), 1956 Morgan Plus 4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Opel Astra (73 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1956 Morgan Plus 4. (57 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1956 Morgan Plus 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Opel Astra weights approximately 518 kg more than 1956 Morgan Plus 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Morgan Plus 4 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 Morgan Plus 4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Opel Astra (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Morgan Plus 4. (152 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Morgan Plus 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Morgan Plus 4 | 1997 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Morgan | Opel |
| Model | Plus 4 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2087 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 762 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2610 mm |
