1962 Fiat 500 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1962 Fiat 500. (22 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1962 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 630 kg more than 1962 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Fiat 500 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 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Astra (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Fiat 500. (36 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
1962 Fiat 500 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
Make | Fiat | Opel |
Model | 500 | Astra |
Year Released | 1962 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 499 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 22 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 36 Nm | 173 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 67.4 mm | 80.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 88.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.1:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 485 kg | 1115 kg |
Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2640 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 53 L |