1966 Austin A 40 vs. 1991 Opel Astra
To start off, 1991 Opel Astra is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,388 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Opel Astra (82 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1966 Austin A 40. (47 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1966 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Opel Astra weights approximately 178 kg more than 1966 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 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 1966 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1991 Opel Astra (113 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Austin A 40. (81 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1991 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Austin A 40 | 1991 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 40 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.7 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 762 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2610 mm |
