1961 Austin A 40 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 47 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (178 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (34 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 625 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, 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 (230 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 40 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 26 L | 52 L |
