1959 Austin A 40 vs. 2001 Opel Astra
To start off, 2001 Opel Astra is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Astra (142 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1959 Austin A 40. (34 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1959 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Astra weights approximately 420 kg more than 1959 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Austin A 40 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 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Opel Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Austin A 40 | 2001 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 40 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 26 L | 52 L |
