1968 Fiat 124 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1968 Fiat 124. (70 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1968 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 338 kg more than 1968 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Fiat 124 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 Fiat 124. 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 (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Fiat 124. (112 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Fiat 124 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 124 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1438 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 44 L | 52 L |
