1961 Austin A 40 vs. 1991 Opel Astra
To start off, 1991 Opel Astra is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Opel Astra (115 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Opel Astra weights approximately 290 kg more than 1961 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Austin A 40 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 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1991 Opel Astra (169 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1991 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A 40 | 1991 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 40 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 75 L |
