1959 Abarth 850 vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 850 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 850. (70 HP @ 6800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 815 kg more than 1959 Abarth 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Abarth 850 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 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 850. (80 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 850 | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Abarth | Opel |
| Model | 850 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 570 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3480 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1360 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 52 L |
