1961 Ford Zodiac vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 2,552 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Ford Zodiac is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Astra (138 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1961 Ford Zodiac. (76 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 87 kg more than 1961 Ford Zodiac. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Ford Zodiac 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 Ford Zodiac. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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 Ford Zodiac (187 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Opel Astra. (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1961 Ford Zodiac will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Ford Zodiac | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Zodiac | Astra |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2552 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 52 L |
