1966 Austin A 40 vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 38 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (125 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1966 Austin A 40. (47 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1966 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 563 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, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Astra (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Austin A 40. (81 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 40 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.7 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 762 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 52 L |
