1959 Berkeley QB vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Berkeley QB. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Berkeley QB would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (123 HP) has 74 more horse power than 1959 Berkeley QB. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1959 Berkeley QB. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 1017 kg more than 1959 Berkeley QB. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Opel Astra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Berkeley QB. (61 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Berkeley QB. 2012 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1959 Berkeley QB has manual transmission. 1959 Berkeley QB will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Berkeley QB | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Berkeley | Opel |
| Model | QB | Astra |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 692 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 123 HP |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 381 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1990 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 52 L |
