1957 Ford Popular vs. 1981 Vauxhall Astra

To start off, 1981 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Ford Popular. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Ford Popular would be higher. At 1,196 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Vauxhall Astra (59 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1957 Ford Popular. (26 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1957 Ford Popular. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 102 kg more than 1957 Ford Popular. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1957 Ford Popular 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 Ford Popular. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Vauxhall 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, 1981 Vauxhall Astra (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Ford Popular. (63 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1981 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Ford Popular.

Compare all specifications:

1957 Ford Popular 1981 Vauxhall Astra
Make Ford Vauxhall
Model Popular Astra
Year Released 1957 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1172 cc 1196 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 26 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 63 Nm 88 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 738 kg 840 kg
Vehicle Length 3880 mm 4010 mm
Vehicle Width 1440 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1630 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2300 mm 2520 mm