1962 Fiat 1100 vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Fiat 1100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Fiat 1100 would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Saturn Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Astra (139 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1962 Fiat 1100. (43 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1962 Fiat 1100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Astra weights approximately 415 kg more than 1962 Fiat 1100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Fiat 1100 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 Fiat 1100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Saturn 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 Saturn Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Fiat 1100. (73 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Fiat 1100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Fiat 1100 | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Saturn |
| Model | 1100 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1089 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 46 L |
