1957 Abarth 500 vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 55 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Abarth 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Abarth 500 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (197 HP) has 177 more horse power than 1957 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1957 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 940 kg more than 1957 Abarth 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Abarth 500 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 1957 Abarth 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Abarth 500 | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Abarth | Opel |
| Model | 500 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 478 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 197 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 52 L |
