1961 Abarth 600 vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Abarth 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Abarth 600 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 150 more horse power than 1961 Abarth 600. (47 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1961 Abarth 600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 791 kg more than 1961 Abarth 600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Abarth 600 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 1961 Abarth 600. 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 @ 4200 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Abarth 600. (66 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Abarth 600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Abarth 600 | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Abarth | Opel |
| Model | 600 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 66 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 595 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 52 L |
