1961 Abarth 700 vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Abarth 700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Abarth 700 would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Saturn Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1961 Abarth 700. (63 HP @ 7600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1961 Abarth 700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Astra weights approximately 1165 kg more than 1961 Abarth 700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Abarth 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 1961 Abarth 700. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Saturn 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 Saturn Astra (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Abarth 700. (69 Nm @ 5800 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Abarth 700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Abarth 700 | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Abarth | Saturn |
| Model | 700 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 696 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 570 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3480 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1360 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 46 L |
