1958 Abarth 500 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 50 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 833 kg more than 1958 Abarth 500.
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, 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 (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Abarth | Opel |
| Model | 500 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 115 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 52 L |
