1958 Abarth 500 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Abarth 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Abarth 500 would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Astra (114 HP) has 94 more horse power than 1958 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1958 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 705 kg more than 1958 Abarth 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 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 1958 Abarth 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
1958 Abarth 500 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
Make | Abarth | Opel |
Model | 500 | Astra |
Year Released | 1958 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 479 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 20 HP | 114 HP |
Torque | 32 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2620 mm |