1966 Simca Ariane vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Simca Ariane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Simca Ariane would be higher. At 1,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Simca Ariane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1966 Simca Ariane. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1966 Simca Ariane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 230 kg more than 1966 Simca Ariane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Simca Ariane 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 Simca Ariane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Astra (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Simca Ariane. (90 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Simca Ariane. 2006 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1966 Simca Ariane has manual transmission. 1966 Simca Ariane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Simca Ariane | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Simca | Opel |
| Model | Ariane | Astra |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1290 cc | 1246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 90 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 52 L |
