1958 Morris Cowley vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Morris Cowley. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Morris Cowley would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1958 Morris Cowley is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (89 HP) has 36 more horse power than 1958 Morris Cowley. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1958 Morris Cowley. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 110 kg more than 1958 Morris Cowley. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Morris Cowley 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 Morris Cowley. 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 (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Morris Cowley. (106 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Morris Cowley.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Morris Cowley | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Morris | Opel |
| Model | Cowley | Astra |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1384 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 89 HP |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 52 L |
