1956 Morris Minor vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Morris Minor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Morris Minor would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Astra (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1956 Morris Minor. (36 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1956 Morris Minor. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Astra weights approximately 635 kg more than 1956 Morris Minor. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 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 1956 Morris Minor. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Opel Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Morris Minor. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Morris Minor.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Morris Minor | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Morris | Opel |
| Model | Minor | Astra |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2190 mm | 2710 mm |
