1968 Fiat 850 vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Fiat 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Fiat 850 would be higher. At 1,384 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1968 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1968 Fiat 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 515 kg more than 1968 Fiat 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Fiat 850 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 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Opel Astra (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Fiat 850. (65 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Fiat 850 | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 850 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 1384 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 65 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 52 L |
