1964 Ford Taunus vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1964 Ford Taunus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1964 Ford Taunus. (53 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1964 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 420 kg more than 1964 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 Ford Taunus 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 Ford Taunus. 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 (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Ford Taunus. (111 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Ford Taunus | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Taunus | Astra |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 52 L |
