1971 Ford Falcon vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,273 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Ford Falcon (129 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2012 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Ford Falcon should accelerate faster than 2012 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 38 kg more than 1971 Ford Falcon.
Because 1971 Ford Falcon 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 1971 Ford Falcon. 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 (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Falcon. (259 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Falcon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Falcon | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Falcon | Astra |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3273 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 259 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2620 mm |
