1962 Abarth 600 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Abarth 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Abarth 600 would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1962 Abarth 600. (59 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1962 Abarth 600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 815 kg more than 1962 Abarth 600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Abarth 600 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 1962 Abarth 600. 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 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Abarth 600. (92 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Abarth 600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Abarth 600 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Abarth | Opel |
| Model | 600 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 980 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 583 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 52 L |
