1970 Morris Minor vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Morris Minor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Morris Minor would be higher. At 1,248 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1970 Morris Minor. (47 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1970 Morris Minor. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 580 kg more than 1970 Morris Minor. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Morris Minor 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 1970 Morris Minor. 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 (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Morris Minor. (81 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Morris Minor.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Morris Minor | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Morris | Opel |
| Model | Minor | Astra |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.7 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2190 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 52 L |
