1957 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air would be higher. At 3,860 cc (6 cylinders), 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 231 kg more than 2008 Opel Astra.
Because 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air 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 Chevrolet Bel Air. 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 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air. (277 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Bel Air | Astra |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3860 cc | 1909 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1626 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5320 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2620 mm |
