1969 Fiat 124 vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,608 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Fiat 124 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Fiat 124 (110 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (100 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Fiat 124 should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 390 kg more than 1969 Fiat 124.
Because 1969 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 1969 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Astra (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Fiat 124. (134 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Fiat 124 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 124 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 52 L |
