1966 Austin A 40 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 32 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 1,698 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Astra (74 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1966 Austin A 40. (47 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1966 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 438 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, 1998 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, 1998 Opel Astra (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Austin A 40. (81 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 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 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 40 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 762 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 60 L |
