1964 Austin A 40 vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,388 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1964 Austin A 40. (47 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1964 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 490 kg more than 1964 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 Austin A 40 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 1964 Austin A 40. 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 (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Austin A 40. (82 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Austin A 40 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 40 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 82 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.7 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 3010 mm |
