1968 Fiat 500 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (178 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1968 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1968 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 875 kg more than 1968 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Fiat 500 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 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (230 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Fiat 500 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 500 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 27 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3030 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22 L | 52 L |
