1961 Holden FB Special 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 Holden FB Special. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Holden FB Special would be higher. At 2,262 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Holden FB Special is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Astra (139 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1961 Holden FB Special. (64 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1961 Holden FB Special. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 525 kg more than 1961 Holden FB Special. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Holden FB Special 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 Holden FB Special. 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, 2011 Opel Astra (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Holden FB Special. (163 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Holden FB Special.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Holden FB Special | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Holden | Opel |
| Model | FB Special | Astra |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2262 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2620 mm |
