1959 Austin A 55 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 Austin A 55. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Austin A 55 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 @ 5400 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1959 Austin A 55. (54 HP @ 4350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1959 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 505 kg more than 1959 Austin A 55. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Austin A 55 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 55. 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) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Austin A 55. (68 Nm). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Austin A 55.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Austin A 55 | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 55 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 122 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 52 L |
