1965 Austin A 40 vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (142 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1965 Austin A 40. (47 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1965 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 390 kg more than 1965 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 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 1965 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Astra (204 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Austin A 40. (81 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Austin A 40 | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 40 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1965 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.7 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 53 L |
