1966 Ford Falcon vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 2,782 cc (6 cylinders), 1966 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (142 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1966 Ford Falcon. (106 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1966 Ford Falcon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 31 kg more than 1966 Ford Falcon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Ford Falcon 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 Ford Falcon. 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 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Ford Falcon. (188 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Ford Falcon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ford Falcon | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Falcon | Astra |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2782 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.7 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1119 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 53 L |
