1968 Dodge Polara vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Dodge Polara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Dodge Polara would be higher. At 5,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Dodge Polara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Dodge Polara (230 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Dodge Polara should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Dodge Polara weights approximately 290 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Dodge Polara 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 1968 Dodge Polara. 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, 1968 Dodge Polara (461 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 334 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1968 Dodge Polara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 1968 Dodge Polara has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1968 Dodge Polara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Dodge Polara | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Opel |
| Model | Polara | Astra |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.3 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5410 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2620 mm |
