1962 Fiat 500 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 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1962 Fiat 500. (22 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1962 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 793 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, 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 (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Fiat 500. (36 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
Make | Fiat | Opel |
Model | 500 | Astra |
Year Released | 1962 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
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 | 175 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 | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 485 kg | 1278 kg |
Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 52 L |