1965 Fiat 500 vs. 1997 Opel Astra
To start off, 1997 Opel Astra is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,698 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Opel Astra (73 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1965 Fiat 500. (22 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1965 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Opel Astra weights approximately 740 kg more than 1965 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 Fiat 500 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 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Opel Astra (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Fiat 500. (36 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
1965 Fiat 500 | 1997 Opel Astra | |
Make | Fiat | Opel |
Model | 500 | Astra |
Year Released | 1965 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 498 cc | 1698 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 22 HP | 73 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 36 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.4:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1280 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3190 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1950 mm | 2610 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 52 L |