1959 Fiat 1200 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Fiat 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Fiat 1200 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 373 kg more than 1959 Fiat 1200.
Because 1959 Fiat 1200 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 Fiat 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Fiat 1200. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Fiat 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Fiat 1200 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 1200 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1220 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 905 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 52 L |
