1963 Abarth 595 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Abarth 595. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Abarth 595 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1963 Abarth 595. (27 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1963 Abarth 595. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 795 kg more than 1963 Abarth 595. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Abarth 595 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 1963 Abarth 595. 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 (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Abarth 595. (45 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Abarth 595. 2008 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1963 Abarth 595 has manual transmission. 1963 Abarth 595 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Abarth 595 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Abarth | Opel |
| Model | 595 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 27 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 45 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 52 L |
