1962 Fiat 500 vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 43 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 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1962 Fiat 500. (22 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1962 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 643 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, 2005 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, 2005 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Fiat 500. (36 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
Make | Fiat | Opel |
Model | 500 | Astra |
Year Released | 1962 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 499 cc | 1795 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 | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1183 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 1950 mm | 2640 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 53 L |