1968 Fiat 600 vs. 1997 Opel Astra
To start off, 1997 Opel Astra is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Fiat 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Fiat 600 would be higher. At 1,698 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Opel Astra (73 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1968 Fiat 600. (23 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1968 Fiat 600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Opel Astra weights approximately 450 kg more than 1968 Fiat 600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Fiat 600 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 600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Opel Astra (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Fiat 600. (45 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Fiat 600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Fiat 600 | 1997 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 600 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 767 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 45 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3550 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 52 L |
