1959 Alpine A 106 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Alpine A 106. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Alpine A 106 would be higher. At 1,246 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 800 kg more than 1959 Alpine A 106.
Because 1959 Alpine A 106 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 Alpine A 106. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Astra (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Alpine A 106. (45 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Alpine A 106. 2006 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1959 Alpine A 106 has manual transmission. 1959 Alpine A 106 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Alpine A 106 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Alpine | Opel |
| Model | A 106 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 747 cc | 1246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 89 HP |
| Torque | 45 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 54.5 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 530 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 28 L | 52 L |
