1959 BMW 700 vs. 1982 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1982 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 700 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Vauxhall Astra (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1959 BMW 700. (38 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 225 kg more than 1959 BMW 700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 BMW 700 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 BMW 700. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Vauxhall 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, 1982 Vauxhall Astra (126 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 700. (52 Nm). This means 1982 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 700 | 1982 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Vauxhall |
| Model | 700 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 697 cc | 1596 cc |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 85.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 69.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2520 mm |
