1961 Bristol 407 vs. 1996 Opel Astra

To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Bristol 407. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Bristol 407 would be higher. At 5,130 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 Bristol 407 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Bristol 407 (215 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Bristol 407 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Bristol 407 weights approximately 435 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1961 Bristol 407 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 Bristol 407. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1961 Bristol 407 (463 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 338 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1961 Bristol 407 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 1961 Bristol 407 has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1961 Bristol 407 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1961 Bristol 407 1996 Opel Astra
Make Bristol Opel
Model 407 Astra
Year Released 1961 1996
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5130 cc 1389 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 215 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 463 Nm 125 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 98.6 mm 77.7 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84.1 mm 73.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 10.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1585 kg 1150 kg
Vehicle Length 5060 mm 4250 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1530 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2910 mm 2620 mm