1961 Maserati 3500 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Maserati 3500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Maserati 3500 would be higher. At 3,485 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Maserati 3500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Maserati 3500 (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Maserati 3500 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Maserati 3500 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Maserati 3500 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 Maserati 3500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 Maserati 3500 (320 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1961 Maserati 3500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Maserati 3500 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Maserati | Opel |
| Model | 3500 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3485 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2620 mm |
