1964 Bristol 408 vs. 1996 Opel Astra

To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Bristol 408. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Bristol 408 would be higher. At 5,130 cc (8 cylinders), 1964 Bristol 408 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Bristol 408 (216 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1964 Bristol 408 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 Bristol 408 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1964 Bristol 408 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 Bristol 408. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1964 Bristol 408 (463 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 298 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1964 Bristol 408 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 1964 Bristol 408 has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1964 Bristol 408 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1964 Bristol 408 1996 Opel Astra
Make Bristol Opel
Model 408 Astra
Year Released 1964 1996
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5130 cc 1686 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 216 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 463 Nm 165 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 98.6 mm 79 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84.1 mm 86 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 18.4:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1585 kg 1260 kg
Vehicle Length 4920 mm 4120 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1510 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2910 mm 2400 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 81 L 52 L