1959 Abarth 500 vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 500 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (85 HP) has 65 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 870 kg more than 1959 Abarth 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 Abarth 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Astra (139 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 500. 2004 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1959 Abarth 500 has manual transmission. 1959 Abarth 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 500 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Abarth | Opel |
| Model | 500 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 85 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 139 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 52 L |
